Lease dictionary
Pet deposit, pet rent & pet fees
The three ways landlords charge for pets - one refundable, two not.
A pet deposit is refundable and covers pet damage; a pet fee is a one-time non-refundable charge; pet rent is a monthly add-on. Leases mix and match, and some states restrict which are allowed or cap total deposits.
Service animals and emotional support animals are not pets under fair-housing law - landlords generally can't charge pet fees or pet rent for them.
Watch out
In states that cap total deposits, a 'pet deposit' stacked on a max security deposit can be illegal. Add them up.
See it in action
The Move-in cost calculator puts this term to work for you.