A pet deposit is a one-time, refundable fee. Like regular security deposits, pet deposits can't be used to cover wear and tear costs. ... You can use a pet deposit to pay for property damage and losses caused by pets — and pets only.

Do pet deposits get returned?

Under California law, your landlord cannot make your security deposit non-refundable, even if it's intended to cover pet damage, and the total deposit – not including the first and last month's rent – can't exceed the equivalent of two months' rent if the dwelling is unfurnished.

Should a pet deposit be refundable?

The only real difference between a fee and a deposit is that a deposit is refundable. So, if a landlord requires you to make a pet deposit and your landlord does not have to make any pet-related repairs after you leave, the landlord must return the deposit to you.