my landlord is changin the rules ~ raised pet dep. from $300. to $950?

Question

we signed a lease stating no pets @ this time, if we aquire one dep. would be $300. ~ we aquired a dog and now landlord is requesting proof of breed & weight w/in 10 days, dated 3/13, we have tried to make contact w/mgmt to accom. nec. documentation, she is always unavailable but has also req. a $950. pet dep. wants 1 yr. old carpet to last 7 to 8 yrs. states now this particular apt. is non pet, but refused to transfer us to another unit due to lack of budget for cleaning fees. we pd. a $300. dep. for init. move-in on the 3/1.

Answer 1

Depending on the dog's breed, the landlord MAY have a case for the higher deposit (for example, the dog is a pit bull). This would only occur if the city ordinances had changed while the lease agreement (with the $300 deposit) was "in process" with either yourself or the landlord's original writing.

If the city ordinances did not change during the lease agreement signing/writing, you only have to meet the $300 criteria - for your existing rental. However, all bets are off if/when you move to a new unit.

The wear-and-tear on the carpet is not your concern ... however, the landlord can (and probably will) hold you responsible for charges exceeding the pet/damage deposit if it can be proven that you (or your pet) is responsible for the additional damage - to ANY furnishings in the unit (including walls, doors, windows, etc).

If the landlord does not agree to this - take things up with your local landlord/tenant coalition and make sure you do it in writing - with a copy to the landlord, so it can't be implied that you failed to inform.

Answer 2

You have a binding agreement. She cannot change any terms in the lease without your approval. It's a contract!!

Send her the $300 with the lease attached and highlighted as far as what she'd agreed to. If she didn't require proof of breed or weight in the lease, she can't do so now-- you can state the breed, weight, etc, if you want, and leave it at that.

Answer 3

if the lease states $300 for pet dep. then your good, call the landlord and then the fair housing authority. If she gave you the number just off the top of her head you out of luck. Take it from me your better off not have a pet in a rental situation. I have rental houses and i don't allow pets. the dep. never covers the damage they do....

Answer 4

She cannot change the terms of the lease after signing. You have just cause to take your complaint to the fair housing board of your city. I would not pay the extra money.