Redditor Expresses Outrage As Landlord Withholds Pet Security Deposit, Despite Paying $6000 In Pet Rent And Minimal Pet-Related Damages

“I won’t let him get away with this!”

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• October 30, 2023

In the quiet town of Illinois, Our narrator (Original Poster), along with her husband, daughter, two large dogs, and a cat, shared a cozy rental.

Living in a place where they were allowed to bring their furry friends came with a price, quite literally. Every month, the family dutifully paid what they referred to as pet rent. 

It was a sum of $75 for each of the two dogs and an additional $50 for their beloved cat - a price they were willing to pay for the comfort of having their pets by their side. Over the years, this price amounted to a substantial $6,000.

In addition to this, they also paid a pet security deposit. It seemed like a fair arrangement, ensuring the landlord was compensated for any pet-related damages. They were entitled to a substantial refund, provided they incurred minimal damages during their stay.

But then came the letter and, with it, the shock. OP’s family was set to move, and the landlord declared they would be withholding a significant portion of their security deposit for carpet cleaning, vent cleaning, and enigmatic "menards supplies to make ready." 

OP couldn't help but question the fairness of these charges. Didn't the pet rent cover normal wear and tear? And what in the world was “menards supplies ready to make”?  

They had treasured their home, ensuring it stayed in impeccable condition throughout their tenancy.

Now, the family seeks answers and clarity. They’re eager to understand their rights and what steps to take next in this unexpected twist of their Illinois adventure.

Let’s dig into the details

A bit of background

OP isn’t happy about the charges on their security deposit, and they want to contest it anyway possible

Important edit

Here’s how the Reddit community reacted to the story:

“Pet rent does not cover pet damage. It’s a fee you pay each month. Ask for an itemized list of damages.”

“Pet rent is more about having another (pet) tenant, not providing coverage for issues caused by the pet.”

“The pet rent is to allow you to have your dogs and cats there.“

“Rent is money you don't get back. Rent for pets, rent for people, rent for storage, for a parking space.”

“Getting rid of smell is pricey. You need to replace carpet, padding, reseal etc…”

“You choose to have pets and they are making the apartment like new so anyone can live there.“

“Your landlord is required to provide actual invoices to prove the repairs actually cost the amount of money they are claiming.”

“They are required to give you an itemized list...Menards items to make ready is not itemized.”

The supportive Reddit community advises OP to request an itemized list of damages, and they should make sure to back it up with photographic or video evidence. 

They emphasize that pet rent is intended to cover typical wear and tear, implying the security deposit should be rightfully returned since the pets caused no damage.

It's a collective call for justice, urging OP not to stand by and be cheated out of what's rightfully hers.

Jesse