What type of deposit can a landlord require in addition to the standard security deposit?

A landlord can require a pet deposit in addition to the standard security deposit. This type of deposit specifically addresses potential damages that may be caused by pets on the rental property. It is intended to cover any extra cleaning or repairs that might be necessary due to pet-related issues, such as stains, odors, or damage to flooring or furnishings.

The requirement for a pet deposit is often established in the lease agreement, making it clear to tenants that having pets comes with additional financial responsibility. This practice is common in many jurisdictions and is recognized as a way to protect the landlord's investment while allowing tenants the freedom to have pets in their rental units.

Other types of deposits, such as cleaning, utility, and repair deposits, may be less common or may not be explicitly allowed under certain laws governing rental agreements. A cleaning deposit, for instance, is usually within the realm of a security deposit's purpose, and utility deposits typically fall under separate agreements pertaining to service utilities rather than additional deposits related to the lease itself. Therefore, the pet deposit stands out as a distinct and accepted form of additional financial obligation associated with pet ownership in rental properties.