This week, I've been on a rental blog binge since that is what I've been working on all week. Today's post is about Pet Deposits.
A Pet Deposit is a specific type of security deposit that landlords may require from tenants who own pets. It is intended to cover any damages that may occur as a result of having a pet in the rental unit. This deposit is typically refundable, provided that the pet causes no significant damage during the tenancy.
In the State of Massachusetts, Pet Deposits are
NOT ALLOWED!
In Massachusetts, landlords cannot charge a one-time “pet fee” or extra “pet security deposit,” as these are not among the four legal upfront payments. Courts have ruled that fees not listed in the statute are not permitted, preventing landlords from collecting special pet charges at lease signing.
Allowable Upfront Charges for Landlords in Massachusetts
Massachusetts law is explicit about the payments a landlord can collect from a tenant at the start of a tenancy. The controlling statute, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 15B, limits these upfront charges to four specific items. Landlords are permitted to ask for the first month’s rent, the last month’s rent, a security deposit, and the actual cost to purchase and install a new lock and key. Any other type of fee, such as an application fee or cleaning fee, is not permitted at the beginning of a lease.
A one-time, non-refundable “pet fee” or an extra “pet security deposit” is illegal in Massachusetts. Since these charges are not included in the four legally permitted payments, a landlord cannot require them at the start of a lease.
Knowing the laws and regulations for renting in Massachusetts is essential. I’m happy to help guide you through the process if you have a rental becoming available.
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