Property Manager · Denver, CO · Member since 2014 · 103 posts · 81 votes
Wondering how others charge for allowing tenants to have approved pets.
There are many different ways to charge a tenant for allowing a pet: Flat additional rent per month, higher security deposit, pet admin fees, fee per pet, fee based on the weight / breed of pet, etc.
We have tried several different ways and found that charging an upfront non-refundable 'pet admin' fee works best for us. We also charge a disclosed fee against their security deposit at the time of move-out for us to perform a black-light test on the property.
Rental Property Investor · Lockport, NY · Member since 2014 · 119 posts · 109 votes
11y
Up front non refundable. I have had to many times that a tenant moves out and only after I start cleaning do I find pet problems. It's probably the most unfair way because some people are so good with their pets and then there is those other people. But they love their animals and are glad to pay.
Investor · Hampton Roads, VA · Member since 2014 · 1k+ posts · 418 votes
11y
Upfront non refundable is the norm around my area. Some places charge a monthly fee in addition to the pet fee. But, I don't do that. It's keeps me a little more competitive.
Residential Real Estate Broker · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2009 · 477 posts · 304 votes
11y
We do extra security deposit, and additional p/pet p/month fee... I've toyed with the idea of up front fee instead of security deposit, but we haven't done it yet.
Hanford, CA · Member since 2013 · 5k+ posts · 1k+ votes
11y
we do either a $50 a month pet rent or a one month refundable security depsoit. This way our tenants have choices. Most people would rather due the pet rent but you get the other occasionally too!
Real Estate Investor · Los Gatos, CA · Member since 2014 · 226 posts · 89 votes
11y
Do a one time non refundable Pet fee per pet (i.e. $500/pp). Don't call it "deposit" or so because you are dropping into "deposit regulations" bucket. The pet really doesn't use more heat or water or anything else to go through the pain of monthly rent. Also if they do damage, you're already covered by the fact it's non refundable PLUS you will use the tenant's regular deposit to cover.
Rental Property Investor · Madison, WI · Member since 2013 · 629 posts · 339 votes
11y
Extra security deposit. Completely refundable if no damage.
Thus, a tenant with pets pays 1.5 months rent as security deposit. We also stipulate that dogs shouldn't be left home alone for extended periods. When they're lonely they chew on our woodwork.