One big decision facing landlords is whether or not to allow the renter to have pets. Many landlords flat out refuse because of the damage that pets - even good well trained ones - are likely to cause over the term of a year’s lease. Others charge an additional pet deposit to cover expected damages from the pet over the life of the lease.
For the most part, this decision is entirely up to the landlord.
But due to equal access and non-discrimination laws, there is a pet situation that could represent an issue to a landlord who refuses to rent to people with pets.
Each state has laws with regards to this condition - and many do not allow you to charge any extra. That means no additional monthly rent or no additional security deposit.
To understand the laws with regards to companion pets for your state, visit http://www.guidedog.org/pubedu/ADA/usalaw.htm. It gives the details and references specific code for each state.
While it is unlikely you will encounter a companion animal situation for your rentals due to the very small population that use companion animals, it is good to know what the regulations in your state are. So even if this situation doesn’t apply to you today, be sure to bookmark the above website or print out the section relevant to your state and keep it in a safe place for future reference in case you find yourself showing an apartment to someone with a companion animal.
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