Renters want to take in foster kids. Helllp

[Gary R Uren]

I rented out a 3 bedroom,  2 bath house to a family with two adults and two children.  The just sent me a text asking if they can take in foster kids. I never dealt with something like that before.  The contract says no one else besides them can be there for over a week so it is my choice,  what options should I consider for this, a rent increase per child, security deposit increased.  They signed a 3 year contract and have an excellent rental history.  Thank you, Gary.

[Nathan Gesner]

1. Fair Housing specifically forbids discriminating against "familial status" which includes foster children. Fair Housing may not apply to you, but you should know for sure if you intend to deny their request.

2. They are excellent renters so there's no reason to deny their request and (as a former foster parent that has adopted three children) I would do everything I could to support them.

3. Family services will inspect the home and limit occupancy based on the number of bedrooms. There's likely going to be a limit of 1-2 foster children, depending on age, sex, and relationship.

I don't think you need to worry about anything. Most people taking in foster children are good, honest people that will take responsibility for any damage done.