Can my landlord ask for additional security deposit in California?

It is not illegal for your landlord to increase your security deposit and ask for a second payment, but if you have a lease, your landlord cannot ask for a second payment unless it is expressly provided for in the lease. Without a lease, your landlord must first give you written notice of the security deposit increase.

Can you charge extra rent for pets in California?

Yes, landlords have the power to charge extra for pets. However, the way in which they can do so is regulated by California law. They cannot charge pet deposits and additional pet rent however they like.

What is the California law on returning a renters deposit?

According to California security deposit laws, after a tenancy is terminated, a landlord has 21 days to return the tenant’s deposit in full. If a landlord does not return the deposit within this time period he or she must mail or personally give to the tenant: Any remaining refund of the tenant’s deposit, and.

Can a landlord charge a pet deposit and pet rent in California?

Legally, landlords can charge a pet deposit, pet rent or pet fee for nonservice animals. Keep in mind the pet deposit along with any other security deposits — due at the time of signing the lease — cannot exceed two month’s rent (three months for furnished apartments).

How much is a pet deposit usually?

Pet Deposit The deposit amount commonly ranges from $200-$500 per pet. This deposit is collected along with the security deposit before tenancy begins. While some landlords separate out the security deposit and pet deposit, it’s better to lump these two deposits together if possible.

How do I ask for deposit back?

Your demand letter should:

1. Concisely review the main facts and lay out the reasons your landlord owes you money.
2. Include copies of relevant letters and agreements, such as your notice to move out.
3. Ask for exactly what you want, such as the full amount of your deposit within ten days.
4. Cite state security deposit law.

Are pet deposits legal in California?

Pet deposits are similar to security deposits and are refundable. They are meant to cover the cost of property damage, cleaning fees and any unpaid rent when you vacate the property. Non-refundable pet/security deposits are illegal in California. There are numerous factors that determine the amount of a pet deposit.

Can landlord say no pets?

The Model Tenancy Agreement wording says pets are allowed by default if a tenant makes a written request to keep one. Landlords can still stop tenants from keeping pets but must offer a reasonable excuse for refusal in writing within 28 days of the tenant’s request.

Can you negotiate pet deposit?

While you could simply walk away from any rental with pet rent, you might have luck negotiating with the landlord. You could also offer to pay a higher upfront pet deposit to cover any wear or tear your pet causes to the building. It may not work, but many landlords are willing to negotiate with tenants.

Can a landlord charge a pet deposit for an emotional support animal in California?

Landlords cannot charge fees or deposits for emotional support animals and cannot reject an ESA solely because it is a certain breed or size. However, a landlord can reject an ESA if the animal has demonstrated it is a safety or health threat to others.

Can a landlord charge a security deposit for a pet?

If your pet causes damage to your rental, your landlord can use this money to repair it. Under California law, however, a security deposit by any other name is still a security deposit.

How much can a landlord ask for a security deposit?

As such, any security, pet or other deposits your landlord asks for cannot exceed a combined total of more than two months’ worth of your rent. This limit increases to three months’ rent for furnished properties. California law also dictates that security and pet deposits are always refundable.

Can a landlord charge a pet fee in California?

For instance, in California, a landlord may only charge a general security deposit and may not charge a pet fee. Additionally, you must determine the cost of your pet fee wisely. As these are not dependent upon documented damage, they must be within reason to cover the additional wear and tear.

How much deposit do I need for a pet damage deposit?

Pet Damage Deposits A landlord may also request a pet damage deposit at the start of a tenancy or during a tenancy if a tenant gets a pet with the landlord’s permission. The deposit must be no more than half of one month’s rent, regardless of the number of pets allowed.