Smoking security deposit

[Rick Browning]

We have no smoking in our rentals but have prospective tenant that will smoke outside.  Has anyone charged a smokers deposit so if the apartment then does smell like smoke can use to help rectify.  Similar to a pet deposit?

Thanks.  

[Andrew B.]

Many states have limits on security deposit, so any deposit charged would have to comply. In addition, if you have a "smoking deposit" and there is damage not caused by smoking, they may try to fight it since they "swear they didn't smoke inside." This could limit your ability to use a smoking deposit for other damages. If you feel the need, just increase total deposit and note on your screening standards that smokers must have higher security deposit.