Extra sec. dep. when lease renews for new baby?

Question

Hi:

Pretty sure my excellent tenants have a new baby, in addition to their toddler.

Want to possibly ask for more of security deposit with this new baby as we all know kids and the damage they cause to rentals.

Has anyone else done this? and do you put the names of the children on the lease as minors or just mention two children in a general way?

Thank you!

Kim Meredith Hampton · Answer

Hello Carolyn,

If you want to risk the opportunity of having a fair housing law suit I would move pass asking for any additional deposit on the property. If you feel like more children will cause more damage then just schedule more interior inspections.

Carolyn Keller · Answer

Okay, got it. No deposit increase for new baby. thanks. no harm in asking

Megan Moody · Answer

This is a big no for me. First of all, could be discriminatory as other people have posted. Second, I charge one security deposit, regardless of the number of family members of the household. I’m not really sure you can vary the deposit amount, aside from collecting extra deposit for pets.

Lynn McGeein · Answer

Not a lawyer, but it's my understanding that this may be a violation of Fair Housing Laws, so you'd be opening yourself up to fines, lawsuits, etc. Dogs, you can charge extra for. Children, you cannot. You may qualify for exemption, but definitely check it out as that could cost you way more than the repairs if you are in violation.

Carolyn Keller · Answer

Normally i wouldn't consider this, but recently one of the kids balls fell into the pipes causing a sewage backup into the house, permanently damaging my original hardwood floors. House was winterized prior to their move in.

So now two kids in my house, seems relevant to ask for more deposit under the circumstances. But your right i dont want to anger them, but also dont want them to roll all over me, and ruin my house.

John Underwood · Answer

@Carolyn Keller I would have asked for an adequate security deposit when they initially moved in. I would not feel comfortable asking for additional deposit due to a new baby.

You say they are excellent tenants so I'm sure they will watch their kids and I would not want to anger great tenants over something like this.

Just my opinion.

Extra sec. dep. when lease renews for new baby?

Extra sec. dep. when lease renews for new baby?

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