Can I keep pet deposit for other damages in MN?

[Jennifer Rysdam]

So frustrated! I have a tenant that melted the new countertops, melted inside the FREEZER, burned a hole in the carpet, hole in a door and a wall. Didn't give a 30 day notice and just moved out! She won't get her $500 deposit back, but I think I still have to give her the $250 pet deposit back for her cat! Frustrating to give money back to someone who will now owe me for damages!! Do you ever keep the pet deposit when they owe you for other damages?? I can't find anything about it in MN laws.

[Joyce Tavares]

Pet damages are not wear and tear and you can charge her for cleaning and pet deodorizing of the carpets, which will be close to the $250 pet deposit.  What caused hole in carpet??  Make sure you take LOTS of pictures before you do any cleaning and repair.  Cat hair under refrigerator, in the heater vents, in the window slides, check all screens, etc., all warrant a deep cleaning, also not wear and tear and you can deduct for this.  I would personally not return any of the deposit and it is going to cost you over the deposit to fix it back up and have it move-in ready for next tenant.  I never charge a pet deposit.  I charge a regular deposit enough to cover any carpet, cleaning and pet damages.  If unit is left in great condition, they get most of their deposit back.  With all tenants, with out without pets, carpets must be cleaned and with pet treatment if they have a pet...it is in the rental agreement. 

Note:  Since she didn't give you 30-days' notice, she is also responsible for the rent during that period.