Re: Cleaning & Damage Deposit VS Security Deposit

Re: Cleaning & Damage Deposit VS Security Deposit by Katiekate (New York ) on April 21, 2017 @06:22

Most state define the deposit as a single amount. Most states cap the total amount.

A deposit is by its definition refundable.

In Florida, I charge a cleaning "fee". This is clearly stated in the rental agreement, and in the initial documents I give to each prospect. The reason for this is that I will have all the floors professionally cleaned. Tenant agrees to this up front. It is not refundable..it is a fee. All,of which I pay to the cleaners the day after move out.

Everywhere else I charge a pet cleaning "fee". Since so many people have allergies to pet dander....I have the place professionally cleaned. Something the tenant cannot do themselves...and I will not risk their failure to get it done. (Nothing is quite so nice as a prospect running out of the showing with swollen eyes in a coughing/sneezing fit). Again..this is documented up front and included in the lease agreement. This cost usually runs about $300.

The exception to my standard pet cleaning fee was the couple that wanted their iguanas. After some bit of research I found out these lizards carry salmonella. I would have to get Service Pro in to sterilize the entire unit after they leave...at a cost of over $3,000. The prospect decided they didn't want to rent from me....geez...

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Re: Cleaning & Damage Deposit VS Security Deposit - Landlord Forum thread 351753