Some landlords just say no when it comes to pets, and California law allows them to do so. If your lease specifies that you may not have pets, your landlord can evict you for getting one. The Federal Fair Housing Act, however, supersedes a landlord's no pet policy.
What happens if you don't tell your landlord about a pet?
In some cases, your landlord may fine you if you sneak in a pet without approval. If your landlord asks for an amount not detailed in the lease, you may be able to file a case in civil court to recoup your costs, but the court doesn't have the legal right to allow you to keep the pet.
Why do renters say no pets?
But why don't landlords like the idea of their tenants having an emotional support animal? The main reason is that tenants sometimes misinterpret the regulation and bypass the no-pet policy. An emotional support animal isn't considered a pet, so a landlord can't charge any fees or pet deposits.
Do landlords have to accept pets?
California, however, passed a law in 2012 that states landlords may not limit pets based on certain requirements. The law, known as SB 1229, makes it illegal for landlords to require that tenants have their pets declawed or devocalized (debarked).
How do you negotiate a pet fee?
- Offer a pet deposit. Know that it stands apart from the standard deposit under the law, so it can only apply to pet damage.
- Offer 'pet rent.
- Provide pet references from a prior landlord.
- Come prepared with a pet agreement.
- Provide any certification(s).
How do you get around paying pet rent?
If you want to avoid paying pet rent, you can off-fur to pay a larger pet deposit (so you can get your money back if no damage is incurred and your landlord still has a way to pay for any damages that do occur). You can also offer to sign a longer lease (the less time your unit is vacant, the better for your landlord).
How much pet rent should I charge?
How much should a landlord charge for pets? Pet deposits and fees vary, but typically range from $200 to $500. Landlords may also charge a monthly rate of $25 to $100 for pet rent. Be aware that some states or municipalities have laws that limit the amount you can charge.
Do people really pay pet rent?
Typically, pet owners pay an additional deposit during the lease signing that covers any wear and tear the pet does to the rental. With pet rent you'll pay a monthly fee as long as you and your pet live in the rental.
Is pet rent legal?
In some states, such as California, and under most rent control laws, landlords cannot charge more than a specified sum as a deposit. This sum covers all types of deposits. Higher rent for pet-owning tenants is legal—rent is rent, no matter how the landlord divvies it up.
What is normal pet rent?
It's typical for pet rent to range anywhere from $10-$60 per month. Pet security deposits are usually between $100 and $600. For tenants that have service animals because of a disability, they have rights under the Fair Housing Law that prohibit landlords from charging a pet security deposit or rent.
Is pet rent a thing?
With pet rent you'll pay a monthly fee as long as you and your pet live in the rental. The fee is relatively small — usually $35 or less — and is considered a discretionary charge, meaning the landlord can legally include this extra charge in your lease, in most cases.