How much should you charge for a pet fee?

[Isaac B.]

I'm a landlord in Portland, OR. I have an interested tenant who has a small cat. Initially I was going to accept no pets on my property. But I think I will give in. How much do you charge extra per month for a cat?

[Nathan Gesner]

This is something you have to study in your market. I charge $25 for a cat or dog under 40 pounds. Larger dogs are $50. Any dog on the insurance list of "dangerous breeds" is allowed for $75 a month and proof that the tenant has insurance to protect against the animal causing injury.

I limit renters to two animals per property.

No kittens or puppies. No recent rescue animals. I want proof the renter has had the animal for at least six months with a good Landlord reference.