Overcharged for Deposit

[Prince 'Ohia]

What is the name of your state?Hawai'i

 

[HRZ]

so request the excess deposit back, in writing.

 

[Prince 'Ohia]

I moved into a beautiful house at the beginning of the year. I used a broker and filled applications with honesty. I payed a months deposit of $2950.00 And first months rent three days before we were to move in. When the landlord found out that I had a twenty pound chiahuahua which was on the application the landlord charged me another deposit of $2950.00. I didn't have much choice but to write yet another check for one of my best friend. Is that even legal?

 

[not2cleverRed]

I moved into a beautiful house at the beginning of the year. I used a broker and filled applications with honesty. I payed a months deposit of $2950.00 And first months rent three days before we were to move in. When the landlord found out that I had a twenty pound chiahuahua which was on the application the landlord charged me another deposit of $2950.00. I didn't have much choice but to write yet another check for one of my best friend. Is that even legal?

Yes, it is legal in Hawai'i to charge a pet deposit, separate from the rental deposit, so long as it does not exceed 1 month's rent.

See: 521-44 (5)

The good news: if there's no pet damage when you move out, you should be able to get it back.

 

[HRZ]

Pet deposits are not illegal....however i f there was a lease in place and it did not require a pet deposit I question why one would agree to modify a lease .

AS an aside, in some circles, LL s treat pet deposits as Non refundable...take care...and take a lot of pictures especially if there is any existing /prior damage. .

in defense of LLs and as a retired LL, I just spent 4 days of craftsmanship with a friend to fix damage done to a modest home by a "small" dog and as a LL I've had to replace an entire living room hardwood floor because of a small dog and an inattentive owner