Re: Is a pet deposit legal in MA? - Landlord Forum thread 189225

Re: Is a pet deposit legal in MA? by MassLL (MA) on October 13, 2009 @14:17

No, its not legal. You can only charge for 1st, last, and security (equal to no more than one months rent). You can also charge to the purchase and installation of new locks for the unit.

Search this forum comments and advice for renting to people with dogs.

Things you can do is to call animal control in the town where they currently live and find out if there have been any issues with the dog/owners. Go to where they live and check that property for unpicked up poop (doesn't mean its their dog) and ask the nieghbors if any issues. ask for documentation as to vaccinations and breed. Make sure your homeowners insusrnce covers that breed. Require they get renters insurace before they move in.

Write up a pet contract. Include whether or not the dog is allowed on your lawn.

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Re: Is a pet deposit legal in MA? by Newstudent on October 13, 2009 @15:04	[ Reply ]

Thanks! I have been reading up in the forum. Many talk about charging a monthly fee per animal, what do you think about that? I am thinking that is not leagal in MA also..

Re: Is a pet deposit legal in MA? by OK-LL on October 13, 2009 @16:33	[ Reply ]

You can determine your rent charge based on occupancy and many LLs do so. Guy next to my rental charges per person on his rental! I would charge a slightly higher rent to allow for the wear & tear by the dog. Maybe $25 or $50/month.

Re: Is a pet deposit legal in MA? by Massll (MA) on October 13, 2009 @19:10	[ Reply ]

No, you can;t do that either. I doubt you can charge more for each additional occupant, call the dog an occupant, and get away with it. Mass is VERY protenant

Re: Is a pet deposit legal in MA? by Newstudent on October 13, 2009 @20:44	[ Reply ]

Yes I agree MA is VERY PRO Tenant!! I talk to LL from other states and I'm amazed, as they are when I tell them about what we as LL cannot do.