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Pet Deposit Does Cover Pet Damage.

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DogLover1979

Junior Member
What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? TN

Is it legal for a landlord to charge a non-refundable pet deposit just for the privilege of owning a pet in an apartment? My fiance just got a bill for 514 dollars to pay for damage done to carpet by her dogs. There was a 600 dollar non-refundable pet deposit and a 150 dollar security deposit. There was an addendum stating that the pet deposit does not cover damage done to the apartment, that it is only for the privilege to own a pet. However, it was signed over 3 years ago by her exboyfriend not her. He moved out over 2 years ago. Is this even legal?
 


Gail in Georgia

Senior Member
A non-refundable deposit can best be seen as a fee; in this case, a fee for the privilege of being allowed to own a pet while residing in the rental unit. It appears this was clearly stated in the lease addendum. And yes, this is perfectly legal in Tennessee.

Carpet damage is prorated over the life of the carpet (in a rental unit this is seen as 5 to 7 years). If your fiance can show proof that the carpet was older than this she can argue that she does not owe this additional bill.

Gail
 

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