What pet fees are typical?

Question

I'm currently setting up the terms for the rental agreement for a house. I've never delt with pet fees before, but my potential tenants have 2 dogs. I know some people charge pet fees, additional deposits, and additional rent.

I'm curious to know what fees/rents/deposits other landlords/property-managers charge.

(BTW it is a 4 bedroom house in Virginia Beach)

I'm curious to know what fees/rents/deposits other landlords/property-managers charge.

(BTW it is a 4 bedroom house in Virginia Beach)

Malcomb Stapel · Answer

@Michael Maliszesky  it's really whatever you deem reasonable. Here in the Midwest it's generally 25-50 per animal, with a limit of how many animals they can have. Then you need a pet fee that will cover whatever you think it's going to cost to turn the place once that tenant leaves. For instance, I know if they are in one of our homes with hardwoods, it's $250 to have our guy come and do a quick buff and coat of the floors to take out all of the scratches. Some people will do $500, these are non-refundable btw.

Tracy Brown · Answer

Hi Michael, the pet fees that everyone gave are reasonable. However, I reccomend you have a pet application process.

Patti Robertson · Answer

We charge pet rent based on the risk of the pet.  We use www.petscreening.com to screen the animals, the same way we screen people. This is free to the landlord. The pet owner pays $20.  The vendor gives a paw rating of 1-5. Our pet rent ranges from $30-50, depending on the paw rating. This keeps it objective.

Jacob Sloop · Answer

I’m in Virginia Beach too

I do pet rent.  $50 per pet per month

Amby Bhagtani · Answer

Great post, so people charge for a both a pet deposit (non refundable) and a pet fee monthly?

Wesley W. · Answer

One time fee of $200 per animal, then $20/mo. per animal.  The complexes around here charge $350/$35 and they get it.

Mary Smith · Answer

We have a good pet policy in place where we charge a one time, non-refundable pet fee - most landlords usually charge anywhere between $50-$500 for pet fees, which you can use for any damages. You can charge this fee, depending on the amount of risk presented by the pet. Additionally, we charge a small monthly amount for pet rent, where you can charge anywhere from $10-$80 each month. Pet fees (whether one time or monthly rent) are not legal in every state, so I suggest you refer to your state laws as well. Hope this helps!

Michael Maliszesky · Answer

Do you also charge an upfront pet fee? or just $50 per month with no other pet charges?

What pet fees are typical?

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