Laws for pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent vary from state to state—and sometimes between towns and cities with city codes and ordinances that address these charges.

A pet deposit is a one-time payment designed to protect the landlord and the leased premises against damages that may be caused by a tenant’s pet. Pet deposits are usually refundable, depending on the terms of the lease agreement and any applicable state or local laws.

Pet fees are usually a one-time payment required of a tenant to allow the tenant’s pet to stay at the property. Pet fees are usually nonrefundable.

Pet rent is a recurring monthly charge for the tenant’s pet to stay at the property and will often vary depending on the size and number of pets that stay at the property.

Laws regarding pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent are usually located in a state’s statutes—and sometimes towns and cities have additional laws (city codes and ordinances) that govern a landlord’s ability to require additional charges for tenants with pets.

In Delaware, landlords are permitted to charge pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent as part of their lease agreements with tenants. The pet deposit is a refundable sum that may be required by landlords to cover potential damages caused by a tenant's pet. The amount and terms of the refund are typically outlined in the lease agreement and must comply with Delaware's security deposit laws, which generally limit security deposits to an amount not greater than one month's rent for unfurnished units. Pet fees in Delaware are usually nonrefundable payments that grant permission for a pet to reside on the property. Pet rent is an additional recurring fee that tenants pay monthly for their pets. It's important to note that while state law allows for these charges, the specific amounts and conditions under which they are imposed can vary by landlord and may also be subject to local ordinances. Tenants with pets should carefully review their lease agreements and consult with an attorney if they have questions about pet-related charges.