Virginia Laws: Pet Rent, Fees, and Security Deposit Rules

Many renters in Virginia wonder whether landlords can charge extra for keeping pets. Understanding your rights and what’s allowed under current Virginia law can help you avoid unexpected costs and make informed decisions when renting with a pet.

Are Virginia Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Rent?

Yes, Virginia landlords can charge additional pet rent in most circumstances. Pet rent is an extra monthly amount added to your regular rent specifically because you own one or more pets. This is separate from other charges, like pet fees or pet deposits.

• Virginia law does not set a statewide limit or cap on the amount of pet rent a landlord may charge.
• Landlords are required to state any monthly pet rent in the lease agreement.
• Before signing, always review your lease for any pet-related charges.

Virginia's rules on pet rent can vary by property. Apartment complexes, single-family homes, and other rental units may have different policies.

Pet Fees vs. Pet Deposits vs. Pet Rent: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to know the difference between these common charges:

• Pet Fee: A one-time, non-refundable payment for having a pet. Virginia law does not cap this amount—it’s negotiable.
• Pet Deposit: A refundable deposit that covers possible pet-related damages. It is usually part of your total security deposit and cannot make the total security deposit exceed two months’ rent (see Virginia Code § 55.1-1226).
• Pet Rent: Monthly recurring charge for pet ownership in your unit. No specific statewide limit in Virginia.

Special Protections: Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Under federal and Virginia law, landlords cannot charge extra rent, fees, or deposits for service animals or emotional support animals that assist a renter with a disability. It's important to provide appropriate documentation if you require a reasonable accommodation for an assistance animal. Learn more on the Virginia Fair Housing Board website.

Legal Forms and Practical Steps for Renters

If you believe you’ve been charged improper pet rent or fees, or your landlord is not following Virginia’s rental laws, you may want to take action. Here are some official forms and next steps:

• Virginia Uniform Rental Application (Form VRLTA-1):
  • When to use it: When applying for a rental unit and needing to formally declare pets or request accommodations.
  • How it works: Complete and submit it to your potential landlord. Sections on pets allow both sides to clarify pet policy upfront.
  • Download the Virginia Uniform Rental Application (PDF)
• Virginia Fair Housing Complaint Form (DPOR Fair Housing Board):
  • When to use it: If you feel you've been denied a rental or charged illegal fees because of a service or support animal.
  • How it works: Submit this complaint to the Virginia Fair Housing Board, which investigates housing discrimination claims.
  • Download the Fair Housing Complaint Form

The main state body handling rental disputes and landlord-tenant issues is the Virginia General District Court. For most rental deposit or fee disputes, you may file a claim there.

Applicable Legislation for Virginia Tenants

• Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) – covers security deposits, fees, and tenant protections.
• Virginia Fair Housing Law – protects renters with disabilities from extra pet-related charges.

FAQs: Pet Rent, Fees, and Deposits in Virginia

1. Can my landlord charge me monthly pet rent in Virginia?
   Yes, landlords can charge monthly pet rent if it is clearly stated in your lease. There’s no statewide cap on the amount.
2. Is there a limit to how much a landlord can ask for a pet deposit?
   Yes, the total security deposit (including any pet deposit portion) cannot exceed two months’ rent under the VRLTA.
3. Are service or emotional support animals exempt from pet rent?
   Yes, under both Virginia and federal law, landlords cannot charge extra pet rent or fees for service animals or emotional support animals.
4. Where do I file a complaint about illegal pet charges?
   Contact the Virginia Fair Housing Board for disability-based complaints, or the General District Court for security deposit disputes.
5. Can my landlord increase pet rent after I’ve signed my lease?
   No, pet rent can only be changed after your current lease period ends, unless the lease allows for mid-term increases in writing.

Key Takeaways for Virginia Renters

• Landlords in Virginia may charge pet rent, but must disclose the amount in your lease.
• No specific statewide cap on pet rent, but security/pet deposits (combined) can’t exceed two months’ rent.
• Service and support animals are exempt from extra charges—seek help if you feel your rights are violated.

Taking time to read your lease, ask questions, and use official forms protects your rights as a renter. When in doubt, seek help from state resources or legal aid.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Virginia General District Court Locations – File rental disputes and review tenant-landlord court info.
• Virginia Fair Housing Board – Fair housing complaints, reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities.
• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development: Renters Rights – State guidelines, tenant protections, and dispute information.
• Virginia Legal Aid Society – Legal advice and assistance for eligible renters.

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1. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA)
2. Virginia Code § 55.1-1226 (Security Deposits)
3. Virginia Fair Housing Law
4. Virginia Fair Housing Board
5. Virginia General District Court

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