Pets are great companions, but they don’t always stick to the house rules! They might scratch the walls, leave unbearable smells, or even damage appliances. That’s why landlords often ask for pet deposits—to protect their property in the event Fido goes a little too far. But are pet deposits refundable? Read on to learn more about pet deposits, why you might not get your refund, and your rights as a tenant.
What Are Pet Deposits?
Pet deposits are basically a landlord’s safety net, a form of informal “insurance.” After all, when tenants have pets, they come with the chance of scratches, stains, or other damages that go beyond normal wear and tear. So, pet deposits can cover potential repairs or cleaning that a furry (or feathered) friend might accidentally cause during the tenancy.
Still, that doesn’t answer what happens after the tenancy. Once the dust settles and your lease has finished, are pet deposits refundable? Our residential property management in Northern Virginia will break it down for you.
When Are Pet Deposits Refundable?
Believe it or not, pet deposits aren’t always refundable. Here are some factors that commonly impact whether pet deposits are refundable for you:
Your Local Laws Allow for Refunds
In many cities and states, there are specific regulations around refunding pet deposits. For example, in Fairfax County, Northern Virginia, the law states that landlords must return their pet deposit 45 days after the tenant moves out. So, you should check your local laws to see where you stand.
There’s no Pet-Related Damage
If your pet hasn’t caused any damage, such as scratches, stains, or odors, then your answer to “are pet deposits refundable,” has an easy answer: landlord has no justifiable reason to withhold the deposit. On the other hand, if your pet does fit that description, things work a little differently. If that happens, your landlord can keep however much of it they need to cover the costs or losses you incurred.
Note, however, that if your landlord plans on keeping some of your pet deposit, they must follow your local law’s protocol. Typically, they must send you an itemized list and documentation of the costs they will cover with the security deposit. That way, you know exactly where your money is going, and you can contest any costs that don’t seem viable.
The Property is Clean and Well-Maintained
If your home is in good condition, that, by extension, means you prevented your pet from causing excessive damage to it. Congratulations! In all likelihood, you can get your security deposit back, safe and sound.
You Meet All Lease Terms
If your landlord has found you followed the lease agreement (e.g., notifying the landlord about your pet and paying all fees), that means you’ve minimized any damage to the property. In other words, you’ve “passed the test.” As such, you’re more likely to receive a full refund.
Common Reasons Pet Deposits Don’t Get Refunded
Are pet deposits refundable? Generally, yes—but it’s important to understand when you might not get it back. So, let’s go through a quick rundown of when landlords might keep your deposit:
Severe Pet-Related Damage:
If your pet has caused scratches on hardwood floors, walls, or doors, that might be severe enough to impact your deposit return. Should you find they made holes in the walls, that hurts your chances. Similarly, if they chew up the baseboards, furniture, or windowsills, that could be cause for concern.
Stains and Odors: When your pet has left urine, feces, fur, dirt, or vomit stains on carpets, flooring, or walls, or just general odors everywhere, that’s likely going to cost you. The landlord may need to use your security deposit for a professional cleaning or carpet replacement. After all, they can’t leave your unit in that state for the next renter.
Flea Infestations: On that note, the landlord also can’t leave the next renter saddled with unsanitary pest problems. That would make the home inhabitable. So, to prevent that, they’d need to treat flea infestations or pest issues your pet causes.
Damage to Appliances or Fixtures: If your pet has damaged the appliances (e.g., chewing wires), or fixtures like blinds or curtains, they’ve damaged costly property. That’s probably going to require a replacement, fast. So, your landlord will likely have to turn to your security deposit to finance that replacement.
Violation of Pet Rules in the Lease: If you have more pets than your lease allows or try to sneak in unauthorized pets your lease doesn’t permit, that’s likely going to get you in trouble. You may just find a part or all of your security deposit left with your landlord.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Legally, are pet deposits refundable? In general, your landlord can only keep your pet deposit if your pet causes actual damage—not for regular wear and tear. Plus, your state and local laws will spell out what counts as a valid reason to hold onto your deposit. Let’s get into the legalities you can usually expect:
Requirement to Get Prior Written Consent
If you don’t get express, written permission from your landlord before bringing in your pet, you may find yourself in hot water. At best, you could be fined with steep fees. At worst, you could possibly be sued. Either way, it won’t be good news for you. So, always make sure you have the “go-ahead” before moving your fur baby in.
Right to Fair Consideration
In many states, if you’re a responsible pet owner, your landlord can’t just slap you with a refusal notice for no reason. They must have a justifiable rationale for their decision. Moreover, they typically must give it in writing by a certain timeframe, such as, let’s say, 30 days. With this rule, tenants can stay protected from arbitrary denials.
Right to Pet Deposits Limits
Again, many states have caps on the security deposit amount tenants can pay. Luckily, pet deposits typically count as security deposits, so they’re oftentimes included. Let’s take Virginia, for example. In Virginia, your security deposit must be a maximum of 2 months’ rent. So, if your monthly rent in Virginia is $1,000, your landlord’s combined security and pet deposits shouldn’t exceed $2,000.
Assistance Animals Are Not Considered Pets
Under federal law, assistance animals, like service dogs and emotional support animals, aren’t classified as pets. Therefore, landlords cannot charge additional fees or deposits for these animals. That said, you’ll need proper documentation from a licensed medical or mental health practitioner to confirm the animal is necessary for your disability or mental health condition.
Have a Better Rental Experience with Professionals
In summary, pet deposits are typically refundable, although local laws and lease terms may vary. If you avoid property damage, prevent your pet from soiling or smelling up the premises, and follow your lease, you should be good to go.
Looking for a simplified rental experience? At Bay Property Management Group, we’ve got you covered! Our team manages rentals to ensure they’re efficiently, safely, and legally compliantly run. We take care of everything from inspections to maintenance requests to crafting lease agreements that work for your needs so that you can get the easiest time renting possible. Let us sweat the small the details so you enjoy your home in peace. Contact us today to see how we can help you find your dream home.
