How much should you charge for a pet fee?

Question

I'm a landlord in Portland, OR. I have an interested tenant who has a small cat. Initially I was going to accept no pets on my property. But I think I will give in. How much do you charge extra per month for a cat?

Nathan Gesner · Answer

This is something you have to study in your market. I charge $25 for a cat or dog under 40 pounds. Larger dogs are $50. Any dog on the insurance list of "dangerous breeds" is allowed for $75 a month and proof that the tenant has insurance to protect against the animal causing injury.

I limit renters to two animals per property.

No kittens or puppies. No recent rescue animals. I want proof the renter has had the animal for at least six months with a good Landlord reference.

Brad Hammond · Answer

I have always only done a larger security deposit of $250 per pet.  Don't make an added pet deposit, just increase their security deposit.  This will protect you down the road if you need to use more then $250 for pet damages.

Neal Collins · Answer

@Kyler Pace Great point. We’re all trying to come into compliance with all the new laws. We don’t line item anything out as a “pet rent”.

Welcome to the new normal of Portland landlording.

Chris Koerner · Answer

I would do $50 for a small cat.

Kyler Pace · Answer

@Neal Collins Wasn't banning pet rent in Oregon considered in the last round of rental laws? It's hard to keep up with what made it in and what they keep talking about doing!

Kenneth Garrett · Answer

@Isaac B.

I charge a $250 fee per pet plus $35 per pet.  Check your state and city requirements regarding pet fees.  The only concern with cats is there urine is really potent.  If they don’t use the litter box it gets absorbed into the subfloor and is difficult to remove it and costly.  Most cats no problem, just a FYI.

John Teachout · Answer

If you're just charging an upfront "fee", we used to charge $250 (on rentals in the $750 to $1000 range.) But now we charge a $200 upfront fee and $20 per month per dog. (two max). The fee doesn't change with the number of animals, just the animal rent amount.

We never ever allow cats in our properties under any circumstances.

Neal Collins · Answer

@Michael Belmore In our Portland market pet fees range from $25-100 per month. On our personal rentals they are typically between $30-$50 per pet.

Michael Belmore · Answer

Hi Isaac,

I've seen most folks charging between $30-$100 each pet plus a $500-$600 REfundable pet deposit in case of any damage. Make sure to check with your state regarding both as laws can vary. Good Luck,

- Mike

How much should you charge for a pet fee?

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