Why do I have to pay an additional pet deposit?

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Why do I have to pay an additional pet deposit?

I am renting a single home. I recently asked my landlord about the deposit if I got a dog for my kids and I. He said I’d have to give half month rent which is $800 and that any and all damage is on me. The house has hardwoods throughout and it’s an older home. How come I would have to pay a pet deposit plus pay for any damage? Isn’t that what the deposit is for?

Asked on July 8, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Pennsylvania

Answers:

B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

Usually deposits are for repairs that were not completed by the tenant.  So many landlords can and do require both options you mention.  They require the tenant to make any repairs related to the animal... and then if the tenant fails to make those repairs, then they will use the pet deposit to fix the rest.  Because this is a contract, the parties are free to negotiate for more remedies or fewer remedies.  It looks like your landlord is bargaining for mulitple remedies, which he can legally do.


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