Can A Landlord Charge Additional Rental Fees for Temporary Tenants?

Question

Hi All,

I have a tenant who says her daughter, her daughter's husband, their 3 small children, and 2 small dogs need a place to stay while looking to buy a home. She says it may be 1 to 2 months. Can I legally charge them additional rent and deposit? EG - $500 refundable dog deposit for each dog and an extra $500/month for the family to stay at the house?

Thanks in advance for everyone's help!

Best,

Michael

Nathan Gesner · Answer

Unless there's some kind of regulation from your City/State, this shouldn't be a problem. I advertise all my rentals as one-year terms. If someone wants to rent for less than one year, I will often allow them to rent on a month-to-month basis for 25% more than the advertised rent rate. It gives them flexibility and puts more money in my pocket.

Michael Pilolla · Answer

I love this community! You all rock! Thank you, @Bob Okenwa @Theresa Harris @Rosa Regier very much for your insight and feedback!!!

Best,

Michael

Bob Okenwa · Answer

There are limits as what you can charge for a deposit.

In California, it's based on whether the unit is furnished. For unfurnished units, the landlord can't charge more than two months' worth of rent. For furnished rentals, the landlord can charge up to three month's rent for the security deposit. This is in addition to the first month's rent.

I'd double check with any other laws regarding pet rent/deposits and how that works.

Theresa Harris · Answer

You can charge for the pet, but for the people-who pays utilities? If they are paying for all of the utilities, then unlikely. I would find out about insurance though. I'd set a max time limit on the stay, though good luck enforcing it.

Rosa Regier · Answer

According to your local housing ordinances, does the size of your property support the new number of occupants?

I would definitely charge for the pets according to your pet policies. Charging per person/family makes sense if that's what you normally do otherwise it may appear discriminatory towards families.

Can A Landlord Charge Additional Rental Fees for Temporary Tenants?

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