Adding a person & 2 cats to lease agreement

[Heath D Wallace]

My tenant of 1 year wants to add a partner and 2 cats to lease agreement. He's been good so far.    Should I charge any extra for the person?  How much should I charge for the cats? 

[Nathan Gesner]

1. You should require the new person to apply, pass your screening, and sign the lease. Do not allow new roommates that haven't been approved by you and added to the lease.

2. Your screening should include screening the pets. Are they fixed? Current on vaccinations? Does the applicant have a landlord willing to confirm they didn't cause damage/odor? I wouldn't approve without that.

3. Yes, the fees seem reasonable. Keep in mind a "deposit" is refundable, while a "fee" is not.