Pet Fees, Restrictions and Deposits When Renting

Renting when you have a pet can be a quite a frustrating experience. Pet owners need to keep in mind that there will be some pet fees, pet deposits, and pet restrictions involved when renting an apartment with a pet as a resident.

Fees & Deposits

Whether you are renting a house or an apartment, the owner will most likely charge a non-refundable pet deposit, usually consisting of $250. This deposit is supposed to cover the cost of carpet and general cleaning after you move out, although, many owners do not do this and just pocket the money. In extreme cases, the owner will charge a $500 deposit, of which $250 will be refundable, given the pet does not cause any damage.

In the case of apartment complexes and townhome communities, an additional $100-$300 fee may be tacked on to your move-in costs. This is a fee that is also non-refundable and is charged as the price you pay for the privilege to have your pet in the unit.

Size does Matter... So does the Breed

In many cases, the option to rent with a pet is conditional based on the type and size of dog you have. Many owners and complexes have restrictions when it comes to the size of the dog, and its usually imposed on dogs above 25 pounds. In lesser cases, the weight is restricted to under 40 pounds.

These same complexes impose restrictions on breeds. The following breeds have been listed as not-acceptable by many homeowners and rental complexes:

Pitt Bull Terriers
American Bull Dogs
Rottweilers
German Shepherds
Boxers
Doberman Pinschers
Wolf mixes
Huskies
Akitas

These breeds, because of negative media attention, have been targeted by rental complexes in order to limit their liabilities and reduce the possibilities of negative encounters among residents.

Medical Considerations

Many complexes may request that the pet be spayed or neutered and have up-to-date immunizations including rabies vaccinations. If your pet suffers from a medical condition that restricts their ability to be neutered or receive certain vaccinations, you will need to provide a letter from a veterinarian stating so.

Remember that most states have laws in place to prohibit landlords from charging rent for emotional support animals. A letter from a licensed mental health professional is required for this to be considered. But all states prohibit the charging of pet rent for service animals such as seeing eye dogs and epilepsy support dogs.

This article was originally written by C.J. Leger for The Mother's Diary.