Pet deposit washington state 610 Installments — Deposits, nonrefundable fees, and last month's rent — Statutory penalty. 18) which outlines the rules and procedures around collecting and returning deposits. Landlords must also provide tenants Service/Companion Animals Can a landlord/housing provider say no to service or companion animals? No. Armed with the right information, you’re well-equipped to ensure your emotional support animal is not just a source of comfort but also in compliance with state and federal laws. Mar 19, 2024 · This article will help you learn how the rental laws in Washington handle everything from security deposits to termination notices so you can navigate these with ease. Understand your rights as an ESA owner. ” These are the types of charges that tenant advocates call “junk fees,” which can refer to anything from May 26, 2025 · The tenant may replace a pet with a pet similar to the one living with the tenant at the time the landlord provided notice of the proposed change. 285 Nonrefundable fees not to be designated as deposit — Written rental agreement required — Remedies. We got our notice of charges for the old unit today. A. Tenants with service animals are still required to follow all pet-related rules and guidelines, and must observe leash laws, waste disposal laws, and noise policies. The reason for that is that you don't have a 'pet', you have 'an animal that is wearing a medical device costume' (for lack of a better term) and you can't pay a pet deposit or pet rent for a medical device. 038. Despite these protections, landlords can seek compensation for actual damages caused by an ESA. Our ordinance regulates security deposits, move-in fees, last month’s rent, and pet deposits. Any non-refundable fee charged prior to or at the beginning of the tenancy (except as expressly allowed under state law or in this section, such as rental application fees, pet deposits, or last month’s rent) This sounds like BS and like it's time to write a letter citing WA state laws and requesting your deposit back before you sue them. Emotional support animals: What are my rights as a landlord? The Fair Housing Act and the Washington Law Against Discrimination require landlords to accommodate tenants with disabilities. 16 Are you a landlord looking to learn about Washington security deposit laws? Here’s what you need to know, courtesy of Invest West Management. It's slightly clever to ask for a higher deposit for the animal, but clever is not smart. c 207). Learn what landlords must do to keep your deposit and claim you owe damages and how you can dispute damage claims. Jun 21, 2025 · Understand Washington security deposit limits, return deadlines, and your rights. When I moved into my current unit, I had to pay a $500 non-refundable pet deposit, a $1,200 security deposit, first- and last- months rent, and $30 dollars a month pet rent. Sep 1, 2025 · Understand washington state security deposit law with clear, actionable tips from HomeRiver Group. I paid $25/month per pet rent in Lynnwood, $300 non refundable pet deposit separate from my apartment deposit. We outline the essential state-specific Landlord-Tenant Laws for Washington. Aug 19, 2025 · Confused about pet deposits, pet rent, or service animal rules? Learn everything landlords need to know—legal limits, refund rules, best practices, and templates for pet addendums. A $750 “new roommate fee. Aug 10, 2025 · The amount a landlord can charge for a pet deposit is subject to state and local regulations. 60. Recipients of these funds establish assistance and housing programs to support communities in ending homelessness. Can a Landlord Charge First and Last Months’ Rent, Plus a Security Deposit? Landlords in all states are allowed to What are some reasons a landlord can withhold part or all of the security deposit? As a landlord, you may be entitled to keep some or all of your tenant’s security deposit under certain situations. Learn more about Washington landlord-tenant laws on general renting, security deposits, rent payments, tenant screening, and more. Please make sure to use the proper pet addendum for your situation. Well Access essential rental lease agreement forms, notices, and templates designed to help landlords manage properties smoothly and stay legally compliant. These conditions will be scrutinized if the deposit refund is disputed, so it is important to check all of these boxes when collecting a deposit at the beginning of a tenancy. May 29, 2025 · Evictions, rent payments, tenant rights—they all vary widely from state to state. Washington State Legislature passed a law in 2025 that caps the amount that rent can be increased annually. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. View the two rental fee laws: Bellingham Municipal Code 6. Washington Pet Addendum Template A Pet Addendum to a Lease Agreement is a document that modifies a rental contract to allow a tenant to keep a pet. Understanding this issue is essential for navigating the complexities surrounding Mar 21, 2010 · WA State: Can landlord use pet deposit or damage deposit for 'smell'? My tenants just moved out. Like many states, Washington landlord-tenant law protects tenants by regulating how landlords collect, store, and return security deposits. The deposit must be reasonable and is intended to cover any damage caused by the pet. Typically equivalent to a month’s rent, security deposits help cushion landlords against the costs of property damage beyond normal wear and tear within the unit. The deposit is intended to cover any additional costs associated with the pet. Always do your due diligence by checking with your city or county, as well. The majority of lease and rental agreements in Washington State require one. New rules and regulations that regulate the activities of pets shall apply to all pets in the facility, including those pets that were living in the facility prior to the adoption of the new rules or Little Creek Casino Resort allows three pets of any size for an additional fee of $50 every three nights. The City of Seattle has capped the amount landlords may charge residential tenants at move-in. Washington State has laws concerning deposits and fees that you should understand. Yes, Washington allows landlords to charge a separate rent for a pet. It requires the tenant will be responsible for their pet(s), requiring that they keep their animals under control, that they do not make an excessive disturbance on the property, and that the pet owner is responsible for any property damage by the pets. “No pet” policies do not apply to service animals. Make sure of your individual state's law regarding any extra deposits such as a pet security deposit, to stay in compliance. You risk getting a "14 Day Notice to Pay or Vacate" if you fail to make payments on time. In Washington, landlords must follow certain regulations when charging a pet deposit. Has anyone experienced this? The landlord cannot refuse to accept an installment payment plan, refuse to rent to you, or charge you interest because you opt to pay in installments. Except as provided in subsection 7. There is grass on the property for pet relief. The pet deposit is typically charged to tenants when they have a pet living in the rental property. s. May 2, 2025 · This guide will help you understand your rights and how to protect your deposit before you move in, while you’re renting, right before you move out, and after you’ve moved. Service Animals and the Washington Law Against Discrimination The Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) includes provisions prohibiting discrimination against persons with disabilities who use a service animal to assist them with the disability. Example: Rent = $1,000. The pet deposit cannot exceed 25% of one month's rent. Find out more about Washington's emotional support animal laws at Pettable. You may be able to argue that your deposit has been withheld illegally if the landlord does not provide Jan 29, 2025 · Learn about security deposits in Washington and the laws, from collection to return, for landlords & tenants. The laws also allow tenants and prospective tenants to take civil legal action against landlords who violate the rules. But because part of the lease state that pet deposit can never be refunded. If you own your home and rent lot space in a mobile home park, readTenants PDF RCW 59. It also breaking the law. com Jun 21, 2025 · Yes, under Washington State law, landlords can charge pet rent—an ongoing monthly fee for renters who keep household pets. For example, per Seattle Animal Shelter data from 2016 to 2022, “moving” and “landlord issues” were, respectively, the first and the sixth most cited reasons for voluntary owner Reviser's note: This chapter was revised pursuant to Wash. ” A $270 application fee. An ESA letter from Washington state also strengthens an individual’s ability to access stable housing without discrimination based on their need for emotional support. Dec 19, 2023 · Navigating ESA Regulations in Washington’s Housing Market In Washington, the topic of Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in rental properties has gained significant attention. 📰 Articles ¶ 01/30/2024 MyNorthwest - Rantz: Washington Democrats' bill will ban rentals to pet owners or raise rents - MyNorthwest. Mar 14, 2025 · In addition to reviewing state laws, local governments may have additional limits or rules regarding security deposits. It is non-refundable. A $200 “lease transfer fee. Do we keep requesting it. 2226 (1973 1st ex. If the pet owner takes care of the fixtures in an apartment or rental property, they get the deposit back. As of July 23, 2023, Washington State law (RCW 59. This is an "admission fee" charged for allowing the pet into the unit. Jun 16, 2025 · In Washington, landlords can charge tenants for having pets, but this right is governed by specific state laws designed to protect both parties. It would be a Fair Housing Violation for refusing a tenant/applicant to have a service or A refundable pet damage deposit that does not exceed 25% of one month’s rent may be charged in addition to the one month’s worth of move in costs. , the waiver must be in Apr 3, 2024 · The Consolidated Homeless Grant (CHG) provides resources to fund homeless crisis response systems. However, Washington State limits how much you can charge for a pet deposit. Washington state law allows landlords to collect a pet deposit as part of the rental agreement. The apartment complex next door is $35/month with no other restrictions. Additional Fees and Current Legal Limits Washington State law now restricts what fees landlords can charge. See full list on ipropertymanagement. And as a landlord or property manager, you’re responsible for compliance with your state’s laws and regulations, like: Security deposit and rent payment laws Eviction or lease termination laws Repair and maintenance laws Property manager or landlord in the state of Washington? We’re breaking down Sep 10, 2025 · Security deposits are one of the most tightly regulated parts of Seattle’s rental laws. This agreement shall not be construed as permitting additional pets, or the replacement of the described pet with another in the event of its transfer, loss, or death. Companion pets for the disabled have their own set of rules. Jun 5, 2024 · Rental laws on pet fees, pet deposits, and monthly pet rent, with more landlord-tenant information from LawInfo. Aug 1, 2025 · Laws that regulate fees for rental units and manufactured/mobile home lots went into effect Aug. Mar 24, 2015 · Service Animal Questions Q. There are also rules governing other pet-related costs, such as pet deposits and non-refundable pet fees. g. And, he’s raising my rent $100/month. My husband and I recently moved from one unit into another in the same complex. A landlord can have a no pet policy, but they cannot say no to service or companion animals. However, we are not ok with the pet charge. Non-refundable pet deposit or other non-refundable deposit E. In Washington state, security deposit laws are governed by the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59. Sep 15, 2023 · Service Animal Owners must have a disability-related need for a service animal. 00. Every rental contract should clearly outline all requirements related to the deposit. We agree with the majority of the charges and are fine with paying them. This means they cannot enforce “no-pet” policies against ESA owners or charge extra pet fees or deposits for an ESA. Jul 6, 2021 · Pet deposit refundable or non-refundable in Washington state? I'm planning to list my property as a rental. Your individual state will have certain restrictions on how much a landlord can charge a tenant for having a pet. Apr 20, 2024 · Conclusion Navigating the ESA landscape in Washington State requires a blend of knowledge and advocacy. However, the law says that tenants must not unreasonably refuse to allow the landlord to enter the rental where the landlord has given at least one-day’s notice of intent to enter at a specified time to show the dwelling to prospective or actual . What is a screening fee? Landlords may check (screen) your rental history, eviction history, credit history, and criminal background before renting to you. It is advised for low-income families to inquire about pet policies before signing a rental agreement. It was the most fair I could find in the area at the time. My understanding is that the pet deposit is for cleaning (pretty much the only thing the cleaning company did as per the document attached Under RevisionWA State LawsUnder Revision Jul 11, 2025 · Two new laws in Bellingham aim to end excessive and unreasonable “junk fees” from being charged to renters in apartments, houses and manufactured home parks. Landlords must follow strict rules when charging, holding, and returning deposits. Emotional Support Animals in Washington Housing The federal Fair Housing Act goes further than the ADA or Washington's discrimination law. The total of non-refundable fees (not including the security deposit) cannot exceed ten percent of the first month’s rent. Tenants […] Under waahington state law you can get refund for pet deposit and any monthly fee return. This added deposit, or what remains of it when pet damages have been assessed, will be returned to Tenants within ___________ days after Landlord is charging $1600 for carpet replace my after I left due to “pet urine damage”. The proposed bill would cap pet deposits at $150 for renters Democratic Senator Drew Hansen, who represents the 23rd legislative district Mar 17, 2025 · Washington State Landlord Duties Washington State Renter Duties Washington State Bar Association Landlord – Tenant Rights Keep in mind that local regulations can supersede state laws. Many jurisdictions treat pet deposits as part of, or similar to, a general security deposit, subjecting them to the same caps. 280 Moneys paid as deposit or security for performance by tenant — Statement and notice of basis for retention — Remedies for landlord's failure to make refund — Exception. If pet deposit is non-refundable, and if tenant brining 3 pets can I ask for $900? Feb 18, 2024 · Either way, you can mitigate the damage risk by charging a pet deposit. My questions are 1. For example, the maximum security deposit in Seattle is one month’s rent, but Washington state law does not limit the deposit that a landlord can collect. Are you planning to rent your Washington properties? Discover which states require pet deposits to be refundable at Nomad properties, ensuring compliance with local laws and tenant rights. It seems like the city doesn’t allow an additional deposit. This exemption ensures ESAs are recognized as necessary accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Some states have limits on pet deposits, such as one month’s rent or a fraction of it, while others allow more flexibility, often requiring the deposit to be “reasonable. Jun 20, 2025 · Rules on Pet Fees and Deposits Because an emotional support animal is a medical aid rather than a pet, landlords in Washington are prohibited from charging pet-related fees. Tenants can also May 2, 2025 · This guide will help you understand your rights and how to protect your deposit before you move in, while you’re renting, right before you move out, and after you’ve moved. However, pet deposits cannot exceed 25% of rent, per pet. Fees = $100 + Security Deposit $900 + $250 (pet deposit). Protect your property. What is the law that applies to non-discrimination and Service Animals? The Washington State Law Against Discrimination prohibits unfair practices of discrimination against a person with a disability who uses a trained dog guide or service animal. If you have specific rules for pet waste, make sure to articulate those in the Pet Addendum. Filing a Complaint If you believe you have been unlawfully denied a reasonable accommodation for an assistance animal or have otherwise experienced discrimination in housing, you can file a complaint with FHEO. ) Check all that apply and Resident initial: Oct 3, 2025 · A pet deposit is also paid once, but can be refunded if there’s no pet-related damage, similar to a regular security deposit. May 27, 2025 · Learn about Washington’s laws covering landlords and tenants including: duties and prohibited activities, how to avoid problems, rent increase rules, rent due dates and late fees, when and how a landlord can enter your rental unit, additional and unauthorized occupants, and illegal discrimination and retaliation. Landlords and tenants often face the question of whether it is legally permissible for a landlord to charge a pet deposit for an ESA. Incorporating pet-friendly policies not only offsets costs but also attracts responsible pet owners, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for tenants and their animal companions. Should Resident submit a check that is dishonored or returned for non-suficient funds, or should Resident offer payment to cure any default such as following receipt of a 3 Day Notice to Pay or Vacate, Resident shall make Verbal rental agreements are valid in Washington State, but landlords must give tenants their rental agreement in writing in order to collect a deposit. Reasonable accommodations are changes in rules, policies, practices, or services that What are some reasons a landlord can withhold part or all of the security deposit? As a landlord, you may be entitled to keep some or all of your tenant’s security deposit under certain situations. Pet Fees and Deposits: PHAs have the discretion to require tenants of general occupancy developments to pay one or both of the following: (1) a nonrefundable nominal fee to cover reasonable costs to the property relating to presence of pets, or (2) a refundable pet deposit to cover additional costs attributable to the pet and not otherwise What Is It? The City of Seattle limits the amount of money that a landlord can charge a renter to move into a rental unit. The rental agreement must state the terms and conditions under which the deposit is refundable, as well as where the deposit is being held. To cover potential pet damages, landlords can charge pet deposits, fees, or monthly pet rent. Pet License: Most jurisdictions in Washington State require pet licenses. Additional Resources A security deposit of $ is required and Resident understands that this will be refundable after termination of the rental agree-ment and premises have been inspected. What It Isn’t Holding deposits (sometimes called reservation fees) are allowed by state law and regulated under The total for all move-in costs (deposit and other fees) can’t be more than the amount of one month’s rent. Jan 7, 2021 · 7. Some jurisdictions specifically define service animals to include companion animals. Do I have to pay a pet deposit for my service animal? Landlords cannot charge tenants extra fees, deposits or cleaning charges for having service animals. While I could probably pay for pet insurance, how do you differentiate between pet or human damage, why can't the initial deposit cover it all? > > > > SB 6064 - Pet fees, deposits Section 1 ¶ If any moneys are paid to the landlord by the tenant as a deposit or as security for performance of the tenant's obligations in a lease or rental agreement, the lease or rental agreement shall be in writing and shall include the terms and conditions under which the deposit or portion thereof may be withheld by the landlord upon termination of Jan 22, 2024 · Pet deposits are designed to cover the cost of either deliberate or accidental damage repairs to an rental property, including the additional wear and tear animals put on the furnishings. Some exceptions may apply for active duty service members. Neibor in same building / Duplex is paying 1600 without pet . Jan 24, 2025 · While landlords commonly charge pet deposits to cover potential damages caused by animals, ESAs are exempt from these charges under the FHA. 5 things Washington state landlords should know about in 2024 1. Do You Qualify for an Emotional Support Animal or Service Feb 13, 2025 · Introduction to Washington Security Deposit Laws Security deposits are funds paid by a renter to a landlord at the start of a lease to cover any potential damages or unpaid rent. For broader legal context This is Washington state, Snohomish county if thst matters. Some of the most common reasons for keeping a tenant’s security deposit in Washington include: • Unpaid rent. Feb 28, 2025 · Key Takeaways: US pet ownership is on the rise, making pet-friendly rentals attractive for landlords. ” In certain states, landlords can charge non-refundable pet RCW 59. However, availability of pet-friendly rental units may vary depending on the specific state and location. RCW 49. May 22, 2023 · The same is true for pet deposits. Understanding service animal laws and regulations at the federal, state and local level is important for all Seattle landlords. Grants are made to local governments and nonprofits. Jan 26, 2024 · Pet deposits would lower to $150 and fees would be gone with a proposed bill to Washington lawmakers offering stability to renters and their pets. 24. These laws govern the collection, handling, and return of security deposits in rental agreements, ensuring fairness and protection for both parties involved. plus 25. Stay compliant and informed. The landlord is charging me for replacing the carpets in the entire apartment. Apr 11, 2023 · Do you believe you are eligible for an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letter in Washington State, but are unsure how to get one? We've got all the details. You can also charge only a single pet deposit per household, even if there is more than one pet in the rental. Landlords must also provide a written receipt for A request to waive a pet deposit, fee, or other rule as to an assistance animal. This guide clarifies the legal landscape surrounding pet-related charges in rental agreements across the state. Ass'n of Apartment Ass'ns v. My lease allows two pets so I’m getting a puppy and property management wants to charge me an additional deposit and double the pet rent. PDF RCW 59. 3) Pet Rent. 270 requires that the landlord must put all security or damage deposit money into a trust account, a bank or licensed escrow agent in Washington state. How does fair housing law intersect with animal-friendly housing policies in Washington? SB 6064 - 2023-24 Concerning moneys collected by a landlord as fees, deposit, or security for pets. For more on notices see Types of Notices. Oct 30, 2025 · With an ESA letter in Washington state, landlords must recognize an approved ESA without imposing pet-related fees or restrictions. 18. Would you ask for a receipt? Sep 18, 2025 · Feel free to add your own terms or even include information regarding any deposits you may want to take to secure your rental against pet damages. Learn about Washington State ESA laws, including housing, landlord-tenant, and homeowner association guidelines. Making payments on time is important. If rent is not paid or otherwise apportioned on a monthly basis then for the sole purpose of applying this limit the As used in this section, “security deposit” includes any last month’s rent deposit. Learn about tenant rights, security deposits, essential notices, and more. Landlord’s Access to the Rental Unit The landlord must give the tenant at least a two-day notice of his intent to enter at reasonable times. Dive deep into the world of pet fees for rental properties. There are exceptions for certain types of subsidized housing where rents are based on the tenant’s income. Washington ESA Housing Laws Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords in Washington must provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with valid ESA documentation. Ensure The Lease Agreement Includes Conditions Required For Full Refund Washington law (RCW 29. Coit come to clean the 700 SF of carpet for $309. Whether pet deposit is refundable or non-refundable in Washington? 2. B, the landlord may require payment of a pet damage deposit provided that the total amount of the pet damage deposit may not exceed 25 percent of the first full month's rent, regardless of the time when the pet damage deposit is paid. Security deposit laws have changed in Washington state Legislation: Title 59 Landlord and tenant law Tenants agree to pay immediately for any damage, loss, or expense caused by their pet, and in addition, they will add $ ____________ to their security/cleaning deposit, any of which may be used for cleaning, repairs or delinquent rent when Tenants vacate. I think he’s absolutely absurd in his rate especially with all the conditions attached. 040 defines a dog guide as a “dog that is trained for the purpose of guiding blind persons or a dog that is trained for the purpose Mar 27, 2023 · ESA laws and regulations to follow vary depending on the state you live in. Aug 9, 2021 · The state you live in: Every state has a different set of laws regarding pet deposits and fees. So, how much do landlords charge for pets? Under Seattle’s tenant-landlord laws, pet damage deposits can be no more than one-fourth (25%) of the cost of the first month of rent. For information about the annual rent increase limits and sample rent increase notice templates, visit the Washington State Department of Commerce Landlord Resource Center webpage. Homeless crisis response systems respond to the immediacy and urgency of homelessness and ensure that everyone has a safe and Nov 29, 2024 · FAQs about What Fees Can A Landlord Charge What A Landlord Cannot Do In Washington State? Landlords in Washington state cannot discriminate, retaliate, withhold deposits unfairly, neglect maintenance responsibilities, or increase rent without proper notice. Oct 29, 2025 · Washington State Laws Regulating Security Deposits Security deposits in Washington are a key part of any residential lease agreement. When you move into a rental unit a deposit and a fee are usually required. Installment Payments Tenants have a right to opt to pay their move-in costs and their last month's rent in advance in installment payments. There is no accrediting body to monitor organizations who train service animals in the State of Washington. I left the apartment otherwise looking brand new. Both dogs and cats are allowed, and well-behaved pets may be left unattended in rooms. Upon move in, we paid $250 for a pet security deposit for our one cat, and a non Jul 3, 2025 · Explore the difference between pet fee vs pet deposit, how much to charge, and smart options like pet rent to protect your rental property. (1) (a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, upon receipt of a tenant's written request, a landlord must permit the tenant to pay any deposits, nonrefundable fees, and last month's rent in installments. You cannot charge the tenant a pet deposit for their service animal or restrict the breed of the tenant's service animal. Under the FHA, housing facilities must allow you to have an emotional support animal, if the animal is necessary for you to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy the home. Pet Name(s) Description of Pet(s) regardless of when that amount is paid (see first two check boxes, be (Pet deposits, fees, and charges are considered as a separate calculation from initial move in fees, such as, Security Deposits, Application fees, and/or Non-Refundable Fees. There were urine stains on the carpet that I could not completely get out (faded spots from cleaning, no odor). The laws list allowed rental fees, limit amounts for some rental fees, and promote fee transparency. (2)(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a… A breakdown of Washington landlord-tenant laws with respect to security deposits, including security deposit limits and legal steps to take if your landlord doesn’t return your deposit. The 2023 amendments further safeguard tenants from unjust deductions, promoting a more balanced and transparent rental market. A deposit is an amount of money that a tenant must pay before or at the time he/she moves in. The total move-in charges, including the security deposit and all non-refundable move-in fees, may not exceed the first month’s rent. The pet damage deposit must be written into the rental agreement. The difference between a deposit and a fee is that one is refundable and the other is not. Jun 21, 2025 · Learn about Washington's security deposit laws, tenant rights, refund timelines, and how to handle disputes with official forms and helpful resources. Missteps can lead to penalties, disputes, or even lawsuits. Aug 30, 2018 · Under Washington security deposit laws, landlords are allowed to charge their tenants security deposits. Landlords can’t charge other non-refundable fees, except as specifically allowed under state law. Landlord's agreement is conditioned upon all of the following terms. The move-in fees/security deposit provision can be waived if certain criteria are met (e. When I received the list of deductions from my security deposit from the management company they included just shy of $700 in cleaning costs. If that need is unclear, you may be required to show proof for housing and employment – not in public places. This 2025 guide explains the latest requirements for Seattle landlords, based on Washington State law and City of Seattle ordinances. Feb 13, 2025 · Overview of Washington Tenant-Landlord Laws In Washington State, both tenants and landlords have specific rights and responsibilities outlined in the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act. The “screening fee” pays that company. Jul 8, 2025 · ESA Pet Fees in Washington: Are They Legal? If you're living in Washington with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), you might be wondering if your landlord can charge you pet rent, pet deposits, or other animal-related fees. It includes rules, pet-related fees, and responsibilities for damage or disturbances caused by the pet. I'm thinking to ask for a pet deposit of $300/pet. These animals are needed to provide assistance to those with disabilities and/or mental health conditions. A $50 “move-out cleaning” fee. Jan 29, 2024 · SB 6064 is the proposed bill to address the lack of pet-friendly housing in Washington state. Sep 14, 2023 · The ordinance includes the following provisions: Limits pet deposits to 25% of one month’s rent and allows tenants the ability to pay the deposit over 3 consecutive monthly payments (Effective September 20, 2022) Limits move-in costs to one month’s worth of rent (move in costs can include a security deposit or last month’s rent) (Effective September 20, 2022) Requires 120 days’ notice Feb 5, 2024 · From new rules on security deposits and rent increases to evictions, here are 5 things that landlords in the state of Washington need to be aware of in 2024. Other than non-refundable move-in fees, security deposits, pet security deposits, and last month’s rent, landlords are prohibited from charging tenants any one-time fee at the beginning of the tenancy. The Federal Fair Housing Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Washington State Law Against Discrimination, and local fair housing laws require that housing owners and managers provide reasonable accommodations for applicants and residents who have disabilities. It also allows renters to make these payments in installments. Oct 23, 2024 · 2. In this article, you'll discover the benefits of charging pet fees, learn how to set them correctly, and get answers to the most frequently asked questions about pet fees. Jun 20, 2025 · A pet addendum gives permission to allow the tenant to have pets on the rental property. Customer: I live in WA State. Can a Landlord Charge First and Last Months’ Rent, Plus a Security Deposit? Landlords in all states are allowed to Dec 14, 2023 · The Importance of Understanding Washington Security Deposit Law Both renters and landlords in Washington State must stay informed about these laws to ensure fair and legal handling of security deposits. Apr 11, 2025 · Under Federal and Washington State law, Emotional Support Animals cannot be certified without an ESA letter from a LMHP. Rent is 1725 25 is latchal and we were told 100 is pet . It is an unfair practice for a landlord to enforce on a tenant with a disability using a dog guide or service animal a pet deposit in addition to any standard cleaning or damage deposit. Pet fees, pet rent, and pet deposits are financial burdens associated with owning animals on property or in establishments, but they are treated differently when it comes to service animals and emotional support animals. Oct 27, 2020 · Pet rent isn't the same as a pet fee or pet deposit. com 01/22/2024 Senate Democrats - This Week in the Senate - Week 3: Criminal justice reform, education, tax cuts for housing - Washington Senate Democrats Jan 29, 2024 · A proposed WA State bill introduced by Democratic legislators will likely backfire on renters who have pets, says an expert from the WA Policy Center. 19. I paid a non-refundable pet deposit for two pets and I paid $35 per pet additional rent each month for a year's lease. Assistance Dogs International (ADI) is an organization whose mission it is to ensure a service animal organization does adhere to quality standards where "dogs are treated humanely, clients are treated with respect and dignity and Oct 31, 2023 · Washington State’s security deposit laws are important regulations that landlords and tenants should be familiar with. Most of the time, they hire a company to make these checks. This means a landlord cannot require a pet deposit, a one-time pet fee, or monthly “pet rent” for an approved ESA. 2d 788 (1977), which declared invalid the fourteen item and section vetoes to 1973 Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill No. Evans, 88 Wn. On top of that, pet deposit is $375 and monthly pet rent is $100. I moved into my current apartment with my dog and paid a pet deposit, and a standard deposit, and I pay monthly pet rent. Apr 5, 2018 · In Seattle, pet rent is allowed. Fees = $100 + Security Deposit $900 + $250 (pet deposit) If you paid a holding deposit, (see holding deposits) it must be applied to your first month's rent or security deposit. In your case I'd offer a pet fee of maybe $25 just as an admission price for the two days. The pet damage deposit can’t be more than 25% of the first month’s rent and must be refundable if the unit has no pet damage. Tenants may pay the pet damage deposit over three equal consecutive monthly installments. 260) requires housing Oct 13, 2025 · Key Takeaways: Pet deposit laws vary significantly across states, and landlords must understand the specific rules for their location to avoid legal issues. The renter may pay the pet damage deposit in three consecutive, equal monthly installments that begin when the pet begins living in the rental unit, or the tenant and landlord may agree to an alternative payment schedule. I recently moved out of a property where they charged me $700 ($350 ea for 2 dogs) of non-refundable pet deposit. And while landlords can charge a pet damage deposit or pet rent on their rental properties in some parts of Washington State, emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals are an exception to that rule. The pet described above, and only the pet described above, may be kept on the premises. Learn the difference between each, and how much a landlord should charge for pets. Security Deposit = $900 Pet deposit of 25% of one month's rent can be charged in addition to the security deposit and fees. A tenant is responsible for the behavior of their service animal and any damage that their service animal causes to the property. Sep 23, 2024 · What is a Typical Pet Deposit in the Seattle Area? Permitting tenants to keep pets can, in fact, benefit property owners and landlords by collecting monthly pet rental fees and pet security deposits. Remember, the distinction between ESAs and service animals is An “owner” is any person legally responsible for the care and actions of a service and/or emotional support animal. Oct 17, 2022 · Both state and local laws regulate the collection of security deposits from tenants at move in. 2d 563, 564 P. Protect your deposit and know next steps with this clear, renter-focused guide. Nov 18, 2019 · In this article, we’ll cover what the differences are between the 3 fees and which should you charge as a landlord in Snohomish County, Washington. Dec 31, 2024 · See how much landlords can charge for pet deposits in each state and if they also count towards the security deposit. Any check which fails to clear the bank shall be treated as unpaid rent and shall be subject to the aforementioned late payment charge, plus a $________ returned check fee. They had two approved golden retreivers and a 2yo son. 253) states that a security deposit, plus any non-refundable fees (including pet fees), cannot exceed one month’s rent. Lack of pet-friendly housing is one of the greatest contributors to the current shelter overcrowding crisis. Maximum Security Deposit The maximum amount for move-in fees, security deposits (including pet deposits), and other special move-in expenses is one month's rent total. Understanding the rights and obligations outlined in the Washington security deposit laws is crucial for landlords Security Deposit = $900 A pet deposit of 25% of one month's rent can be charged in addition to the security deposit and fees. Patients entering the I&Q facility with a service or emotional support animal are required to present a current dog license/registration. 2) Pet Fee. No moneys paid to the landlord which are nonrefundable may be designated as a deposit or as part of any deposit. This law serves as the foundation for regulating the rental housing market and provides protections for both parties. 1, 2025. jlvgd osyhxag ymvpqku qbuikvib fzcl nzhilzg eipm jkrqprg iep yzdwfc bxzjrd kgxu rdzr pzekcok mbhafhxf