If you’re a pet parent searching for a new rental apartment, you are probably coming across terms such as “pet deposit,” “pet rent,” and “pet fee.” At first glance, they might sound pretty similar, but they have some key differences. Knowing what these terms mean can help you avoid paying unnecessary fees when signing a lease.
In this post, we’ll break down the differences between pet deposits, pet rent, and pet fees, and share some tips to help you navigate these costs as a pet owner.
Decoding the Terminology: What’s the Difference Between a Pet Deposit, Pet Fee, and Pet Rent?
Here are the primary differences between pet-related charges:
Pet Deposit:
This is a deposit the landlord may keep if there is pet-related damage to the apartment. For example, if your cat scratches a door or your dog stains the carpet. Landlords may set a specific pet deposit amount based on the size and type of pet you own, the number of pets, and the home’s property value.
Depending on your state, the total deposit amount is typically capped by local landlord-tenant laws. Be sure to check the laws for your state to ensure you aren’t getting overcharged.
Pet Rent:
Pet rent is an additional monthly charge on top of your regular rent. It’s essentially a premium for having a pet in the unit and is non-refundable. It may vary depending on the size, breed, and number of pets you have. This helps landlords offset the cost of cleaning up after pets in the building’s communal areas such as the lobby, elevators, pet runs, outdoor areas, etc.
Depending on the state you live in, landlords may calculate pet rent as a certain percentage of your unit’s rent – 1% or 2%, for example. Other landlords might charge a flat fee based on the pet type or size.
Pet Fee:
This is a non-refundable, one-time fee charged by the landlord for allowing you to have a pet in the rental unit. Similar to an administration or move-in fee, the pet fee is a payment for the increased risk that comes with allowing pets in a rental property.
A pet fee is a one-time charge, while pet rent is an extra recurring monthly fee. The pet fee is not returned to you at the end of your lease term.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
When Will a Landlord Keep the Pet Deposit?
Landlords may keep the pet deposit if any of the following occur while you’re living on their property:
- A pet breaks an appliance
- Flea infestation
- Holes in the wall
- Urine stains
- Scratches on floors, walls, and other areas of the apartment/building
Surprised by unexpected pet fees? You’re not alone. Make sure you understand the difference between pet rent, deposits, and fees before signing your next lease.
Is It Legal for a Landlord to Refuse My Application Because of My Pet?
Breed Restrictions:
Some landlords may have restrictions on breeds that are perceived as aggressive.
Pet Screening:
Some landlords conduct pet screenings to assess the suitability of your pet for their property. This may involve background checks, references from previous landlords, and sometimes even behavioral assessments.
A resume with your pet’s photos, vaccinations, behavior patterns, breed size, and type, neutered/spayed status, and contact information of past landlords/references can help you stand out when going through the screening process.
State and Local Laws:
Pet deposit and fee regulations vary significantly by state and city. Some jurisdictions have specific limits on the amount they are allowed to charge for pet deposits, while others may prohibit certain types of fees. Check the specific fees for your state to ensure you aren’t getting overcharged.
Tips for Negotiating
- Read All Pet-Related Clauses: When signing a lease, be sure to carefully read through all pet-related clauses to ensure you aren’t overpaying for pet rent, deposits, and fees.
- Document Everything: Keep copies of all lease agreements, pet policies, and payment receipts for your records.
- Maintain a Clean Record: Ensure your pet is well-behaved and properly trained. This will minimize the risk of damage to the property and increase your chances of getting the full deposit back.
How Can I Get My Pet Deposit Back?
If your pet didn’t cause any damage to the property, do the following when moving in/prior to moving out:
- Check with your landlord to ensure the property has been properly fumigated for fleas and other pests before you move in.
- Take time-stamped photos of the apartment before moving in and keep them on file.
- Take time-stamped photos the day you move out of the apartment and send them to your landlord along with the photos from before moving in.
Is it Legal to Charge Pet Fees if I Own a Service Animal or Emotional Support Animal?
It is against the law to charge a pet fee for service animals or emotional support animals, per the Fair Housing Law. The law recognizes that service and emotional support animals are not considered pets since they are essential for the well-being of those with disabilities. However, you will most likely need to present your landlord with written proof from a doctor or therapist that you need the animal(s) for personal reasons.
What is the Typical Monthly Pet Rent?
Pet rent can vary quite widely based on pet type, size, and your local rental market.
Key Takeaways
If you’re a pet owner in the market for a new rental property, all of Draper and Kramer’s luxury properties are pet-friendly. We also offer a wide range of amenities for pet owners including dog runs, indoor parks, pet spas, 24-hour dog decks, and more.
Here are some great apartment buildings to check out:
- Hubbard221 in Chicago offers a dog run and pet spa.
- Eleven Thirty in Chicago has a 24-hour dog deck as well as an on-site pet spa.
- Burnham Pointe offers an indoor dog park, a great perk for a rainy or snowy Chicago day.
- Wrigleyville Lofts in Chicago features a fully equipped dog spa.
- Moda at the Hill in St. Louis, MO features pet care facilities.
- Crest at Las Colinas in Irving, TX, a suburb of Dallas, features a dog park.
Visit Draper and Kramer to learn more about our pet-friendly properties!
