Pet fees, pet rent, and pet deposits—explained

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May 13, 2021

Learn more about how much you can expect to pay at pet-friendly rental properties

Pet-friendly rental properties are increasingly popular among tenants. 72% of renters own pets, and around 75% of renters without pets say they either enjoy living in pet-friendly properties or don’t have a preference. [1] 

Renters with pets also tend to stay longer than tenants without any pets—46 months rather than 18 months. [2]

As much as we love our pets, they’re a liability for landlords because they can cause damage to the property. To pay for potential damages, landlords may charge a pet fee, pet deposit, pet rent, or a combination of the three. 

Continue reading to learn more about pet fees, pet deposits, and pet rent.

 

What are pet fees? 

Pet fees are one-time, nonrefundable fees a landlord charges for allowing pets to live in the property and cover potential damages. Pet fees usually range between $100 to $500 and can be based on the number of pets, type of pet, and their size. 

 

What is a pet deposit?

A pet deposit is an upfront and refundable charge, given that there is no pet damage when you move out. This deposit is collected along with a security deposit that covers any damages not related to your pets. Landlords usually determine the pet deposit based on the size, type, and number of pets. 

So, what exactly does a pet deposit cover? Any damages in the property caused by pets, including: 

  • Flea infestations
  • Stains
  • Broken appliances, and
  • Holes and scratches on the floor and walls.

The average pet deposit ranges between 40% and 85% of the rent. [2] This means if your rent is $1,500 a month, the pet deposit could be anywhere from $600 to $1,275.

 

What is pet rent? 

Unlike pet fees and pet deposits, pet rent is a monthly charge in addition to rent. Pet rent usually ranges anywhere from an extra $10 to $100 a month, depending on the size, number, and type of pet you have. A tenant with one cat will be charged a lower pet rent than a tenant with two large dogs. 

Bonus tip: It’s important to note that landlords cannot legally charge any type of pet fee, rent, or deposit for service animals and emotional support animals. Proper documentation needs to be provided during application. 

 

Looking for a pet-friendly rental property in Central Florida? 

At Rental Heroes, pets are allowed at our properties on a case by case basis, subject to a pet screening — to view the pet’s record and information — and final approval by the property owner. Rental Heroes’s properties have a two pet limit and all fees and deposits are per pet. 

Our policy for pets includes:

  • Pet fee of $100
  • Pet rent of $20
  • Pet deposit is current being waved


Ready to find a new home for you and your furry friend? 

Browse our selection of properties


Sources: 

1: Apartments.com | As Pet Popularity Peaks Among Renters, So Goes Demand for Pet-Friendly Places

2: Petfinder | Pet-Friendly Housing Study