Hi. Does anyone know the specific law in Rhode Island when it comes to taking a deposit for pets? I know you can't take more than 1 month's rent for security deposit but does that include any sort of fee or deposit for a pet? I'd appreciate some advice --72.87.xxx.xx

Two to three hundred dollars would be the usual thing. You have to decide how much it would cost to have the carpets cleaned at the end of the tenancy and repair scratches to paint and possibly kitchen cabinets. I'm not aware of any rules as to how much you can charge for a pet deposit. Really in most state one can charge one and a half months security. It it's a really big dog you should reconsider because they can do a whole lot of damage to window sills and walls and blinds if they decide they want to get out while someone's not home, not to mention huge urine stains on wood floors and possible biting and insurance issues. For a cat the worst that can happen is you may have to replace carpet and tile over wood floors. Make sure a male cat is neutered or don't take the cat because that odor damage can run into the thousands. --76.99.xxx.xx

i dont know the answer but i know u should have a book on state landlord tenant laws.good luck chico --208.58.x.xx