Pet deposit, Pet Fee

[Caryn Seifert]

Hi! On occasion I rent to tenants with pets if all the other boxes are checked. Not sure if I need to increase the fees. What do you charge?

Currently I charge a $300 non-refundable pet fee and $50/mo per pet. I think the non-refundable fee is low based on the damage pets can do (not to mention tenants). I am thinking of raising this to $500 and also increasing the refundable deposit by a few hundred. 

SF in Ohio. Rent $1200. Security deposit $2400. If no pets. TIA for your input. 

[Alan Asriants]

I charge a $500 deposit or a $25/m pet fee

But I have a condition...

I tell the applicant that I usually do not take pets, but I do make exceptions. I first need to see their place before I make a decision. 

I have a dog and my place is spotless, and I know plenty of people who are the same way. Its not the animal - it is the owner. 

Seeing their place is a great way to tell how your tenant will take care of your property. Might start doing this for all tenants - even without pets. 

If they deny me to enter, I deny them