Kansas Pet Rent Laws: What Landlords Can and Cannot Charge

Renters in Kansas often need to know what fees, deposits, and monthly charges a landlord can legally collect if you have a pet. Understanding the rules about pet rent, non-refundable pet fees, and security deposit caps can help you budget and protect your rights under state law.

Are Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Rent in Kansas?

Yes. Kansas law allows landlords to charge pet rent or additional monthly fees for tenants who have pets. This is a common practice and is considered legal if it is specified in your lease agreement.

• There is no specific Kansas law that caps monthly pet rent amounts. The amount is determined by the landlord and should be stated in the lease.
• Pet rent is a recurring, extra monthly charge that is separate from your regular rent and any security deposit.

Because there is no statewide limit, it’s important to review your lease carefully before signing and ask your landlord for clarification if pet fees are unclear.

Security Deposits and Pet Fees: Kansas Rules

• The Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act limits the total security deposit a landlord may collect to one month’s rent for an unfurnished unit—but landlords can charge up to 1.5 months’ rent if your unit is furnished.
• If you have a pet (excluding assistance animals), the landlord can charge up to an additional half month’s rent as a pet deposit over the regular deposit cap. That means, for an unfurnished unit, the maximum deposit (including the pet deposit) is 1.5 months’ rent.
• Landlords may charge a one-time, non-refundable pet fee. This is separate from your security deposit and must be clearly identified in your lease.

The additional pet deposit and/or pet fee should be explained and outlined in your rental agreement or lease.

All deposits (except non-refundable fees) are refundable at the end of your lease if there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Pets vs. Assistance Animals

Under Kansas and federal fair housing laws, assistance animals are not considered pets. You cannot be charged pet rent, pet deposits, or pet fees for a qualified service or support animal. If you believe you’ve been wrongfully charged for an assistance animal, you can contact the Kansas Human Rights Commission or file a complaint under the Fair Housing Act.

How Do Official Forms Work in Kansas?

There is no specific state form in Kansas dedicated to pet rent issues. However, common residential tools include:

• Kansas Notice of Security Deposit Withholding: Landlords must provide this statement if they keep all or part of your security or pet deposit when you move out, explaining why funds were withheld. There is no single statewide form, but your landlord must comply with state law.

Example: If you move out and discover your pet deposit was withheld, you should receive an itemized statement within 30 days. If you do not, you can contact the Kansas Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Information Center for guidance on your next steps.

Which Tribunal or Agency Handles Disputes?

In Kansas, the courts oversee landlord-tenant disputes, including those related to pet rent or deposits. Cases are generally heard in the Kansas District Courts. If you have difficulties with your landlord regarding pet rent, deposit returns, or discrimination, you may also contact the Kansas Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Information Center or the Kansas Human Rights Commission for complaints about discrimination.

What is the Relevant Law?

The key state law is the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This statute outlines all rules regarding deposits, fees, and lease agreements for residential rentals.^[1]

FAQ: Kansas Pet Rent & Fees

1. Can my landlord charge both pet rent and a pet deposit?
   Yes, landlords in Kansas can charge both monthly pet rent and a separate pet deposit, as long as total deposits do not exceed legal limits.
2. Are there any limits on how much pet rent a Kansas landlord can charge?
   No, there is no statutory cap for monthly pet rent. The amount should be stated in your lease.
3. Can a landlord keep a pet deposit for normal wear and tear?
   No, landlords can only keep your deposit (including the pet portion) for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear caused by your pet.
4. Is my service animal subject to pet rent or fees?
   No. Assistance animals are not subject to pet rent, deposits, or extra fees under state and federal law.
5. What can I do if my landlord withholds my pet deposit unfairly?
   You may request an itemized statement, and if not received within 30 days or if you disagree, you can consider filing a claim in Kansas District Court.

Key Takeaways

• Kansas law lets landlords charge extra pet rent and deposits above regular rent, but total deposits are capped.
• Monthly pet rent is not limited by state law but must be in your lease.
• Assistance animals are not considered pets and are exempt from pet-related charges.

Be sure to read your lease and ask your landlord to explain any pet fees or deposits before you sign. State resources are available if you think you are being charged incorrectly or unfairly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kansas Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Information Center: Official guidance on tenancy rights and dispute resolution.
• Kansas Human Rights Commission: File complaints about housing discrimination, including denial of service animals.
• Kansas District Courts: Where to file related legal claims.
• Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Deposits and Fees

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1. Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, K.S.A. 58-2547 and 58-2550

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