Are landlords allowed to charge pet deposits or fees in violation of Fair Housing Law?

Fair Housing Laws in California prohibit landlords from charging tenants additional pet deposits or fees unless those deposits and fees are likewise charged for non-pet-owning tenants who have comparable living situations. Landlords must also always provide tenants who own pets with the same level of amenities and services (such as pet-focused waste management, pet-friendly landscaping, etc.) that are provided to non-pet-owning tenants. These restrictions can be applicable to both residential leases and rental agreements. In general, landlords are not allowed to discriminate against tenants who own pets. However, some exceptions to the rules may exist, such as requiring all tenants to sign a pet agreement or stipulating a specific weight limit for pets. Landlords are also allowed to charge pet deposits as long as they do not exceed the deposit requirement for non-pet-owning tenants. Ultimately, landlords are allowed to charge pet deposits or fees in certain situations, but they must always be careful to follow Fair Housing Laws, as violations of these laws can lead to penalties or fines. Additionally, landlords should always consult with their local housing authority before developing a pet policy in order to make sure that it is compliant with local and state laws.

Related FAQs

Are landlords allowed to require tenants to pay a security deposit in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to require tenants to submit to a credit check in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
What does Fair Housing Law protect against?
Are landlords allowed to ask tenants about their criminal backgrounds in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Is a landlord required to provide accessible features in units in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to impose certain rules or regulations on tenants in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to refuse to rent to same-sex couples under Fair Housing Law?
Are there any limitations on the amount of rent a landlord can charge in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Is a landlord required to respond to complaints about violations of Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to ask for proof of citizenship in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

Are landlords allowed to charge pet deposits or fees in violation of Fair Housing Law?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts