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I can only answer this for Massachusetts, but I think it's the same in most or all states. MGL c.186 only allows a landlord to collect at the beginning of a tenancy: 1. first month rent; 2. last month rent; 3. security deposit; and 4. a key fee. Anything else is forbidden. Futhermore, a pet deposit is clearly meant to cover damage by a pet. That's a security deposit - it's the same thing. BTW, the deposit must then be handled like a security deposit, which is difficult. The penalty for mishandling it is three times the amount of the deposit.

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15y ago

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Related Questions

What is a pet deposit?

Most states consider a pet deposit to be the same as a security deposit. In states that limit the amount of a security deposit, collecting both would be a violation of the law.


Besides a security deposit how much can a landlord charge for a pet deposit on 2 cats?

That depends on the laws of the state. In Massachusetts, a pet deposit is a security deposit, and the total security deposit cannot be more than one month's rent.


Can landlord keep security deposit when you take in a stray cat?

Most landlords require a "pet deposit" in addition to your initial security deposit. So, if you get a cat, without permission from your landlord, then yes, they can deduct from your security deposit, the amount that you would have paid for the pet deposit. Also, they may be able to evict you, if they find out you have an unauthorized pet.


Are pet deposit's returned?

Most states which have laws governing (and limiting) deposits consider a pet deposit to be a security deposit, intended to be used for repairing physical damage. Some states forbid any security deposit greater than one month's rent, including a 'pet deposit'. So, yes, if there is no physical damage, the deposit should be returned.


Can a landlord sew after two years for rent when they kept the security deposit and the pet deposit?

Yes.


Can a landlord charge a pet deposit fee if the pet has been on the premises for more than a month and nothing was ever said about a fee when I got it?

It sounds like the landlord wants to change the terms of the tenancy. They can do that, but they would have to follow the proper procedure. If this is a year lease, they have to wait until the year is up. If a month-to-month tenancy, they have to give a full month's notice. Also, some states limit the amount of a security deposit to one month. A pet deposit is a security deposit, regardless of what someone calls it. If they have collected a one-month security deposit already, state law may prohibit collecting another deposit.


Does a landlord have to return a pet deposit for a house rental in ri?

In Rhode Island, a landlord is required to return a pet deposit if the tenant has complied with the lease terms and returned the property in good condition. The pet deposit is typically considered part of the security deposit, which must be returned within 20 days after the tenant vacates the property, minus any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear. If the property shows no damages from the pet, the deposit should be fully refunded. Always check the specific lease agreement for additional terms related to pet deposits.


Can your landlord charge you a pet deposit for a medical dog?

Most states limit the amount of a security deposit, usually to one month's rent. It really doesn't matter if there is an animal or not. Some landlords will charge an additional 'pet deposit', but, call it what you want, it's a security deposit, and the amount is limited. I suppose it is possible for a service dog to do some damage, just like any other animal.


What is a typical pet deposit fee for apartments?

There is no such thing as a "typical" pet deposit. Every apartment complex/owners are different. Personally, I have seen $300 per pet, half of which is refundable; I have seen $400-$500 pet deposit fee and $0 non-refundable! I watch out for those people--they are greedy. I feel that when I move & the apartment has NO damage, I should get my pet deposit refunded--all of it!! I think the reason for the variety of pet deposit fees is due to the damage that other people have left behind in that complex. All it takes is one or 2 people to screw it up for everybody else. People do a lot more damage than pets. I don't agree with or like the pet deposit. The Security Deposit is less than the pet deposit in most cases. Some apartments have such a high pet deposit fee, that people get turned off living there with pets, which I think is the intention of the owners. It turns me off if I see a pet fee of $400 per pet (I have 2 cats) & there is $0 refunded upon move out. I will say this, that if you have pets, make sure they are well behaved. Make sure you have litter boxes for your cats; don't turn them into outdoor cats & forget them. Don't forget to take your dog outside to go potty. If a person doesn't take care of their pets then they don't deserve them.


What is the purpose of a security deposit and when is the last security deposit typically due?

The purpose of a security deposit is to protect the landlord in case of damage or unpaid rent by the tenant. The last security deposit is typically due when the lease agreement ends and the tenant moves out.


Can a landlord ask for a deposit after I have been renting from him more than 3 years?

If you have a pet and have lived in an residence for four years, the landlord may be entitled to a pet deposit. Your residence is not permanent: you are a tenant, and your pet can cause damage, because it's an animal. One day, when you move out, the landlord needs to prepare the residence for a new tenant. Your landlord may be a little tardy in asking for a deposit. You may be able to negotiate the deposit if you bring your landlord into your residence and show that after four years, there is no pet damage. Your landlord may counter that your pet could damage the residence in the future, and the landlord would be correct. Finally, when you do move out, at least your landlord may want to remove trace evidence of a pet having lived in the residence, including dander, pet hair, aquarium damage, and so forth. Your pet deposit would cover this expense.


Will you receive your full security deposit back?

security deposit from what? try asking again but more detailed

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