Separate pet deposit, or just raise the security deposit amount?

[Bienes Raices]

In my state there's no limit to how high of a sec. deposit you collect, so is there a point to going to the trouble of a separate pet deposit with a pet agreement? Also, what is the rationale behind asking for non-refundable pet fees? Thanks.

[Mark N.A]

To avoid legal problems it's best to call something nonrefundable a 'fee' (and make that clear) as opposed to a refundable 'deposit'.

I make it clear that any necessary cleaning will come out of tenant's security deposit, and keep good documentation like photos and move-in check lists signed and dated by tenants.