Are Pet Deposits Allowed for Tenants in PEI?

If you’re a renter in Prince Edward Island and you have (or want) a pet, you may be wondering whether your landlord can ask for a pet deposit. Understanding your rights as a tenant in PEI can help you avoid illegal charges and know what to expect before signing a lease. This article breaks down what’s allowed under the province’s laws and what steps you should take if asked to pay a deposit relating to pets.

What Is a Pet Deposit?

A pet deposit is a sum of money paid by a tenant at the start of a rental agreement to cover potential damages caused by a pet. In some provinces, landlords can charge a separate pet deposit in addition to a general damage deposit, but the rules vary depending on where you live.

Can Landlords Charge a Pet Deposit in Prince Edward Island?

No, landlords in Prince Edward Island cannot charge a separate or additional pet deposit. According to the Prince Edward Island Rental of Residential Property Act, landlords may only collect a single security deposit (often called a damage or rental deposit) that cannot exceed one month’s rent. The Act does not provide for any additional deposit for keeping pets.^[1]

All deposits in PEI are strictly regulated. Attempts to charge extra amounts specifically for pets are not legally permitted. If a landlord asks you to pay a separate pet deposit, you can refuse and refer them to the Act.

What About Pet Clauses and No-Pet Policies?

Landlords may include pet restrictions or no-pet clauses in their rental agreements. However, if pets are allowed, the landlord remains limited to a single, standard security deposit. It’s important to review your rental agreement and confirm its pet policy before moving in.

Understanding Security Deposits in PEI

In Prince Edward Island, the Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know page offers more details about what landlords can and can’t request. Here are the basics for security deposits in PEI:

• Cannot be more than one month’s rent
• Must be held in trust and returned to the tenant at the end of the tenancy (minus any damages beyond normal wear and tear)
• Landlords cannot ask for multiple types of deposits (e.g., pet + security)

Should you move out, knowing How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out will help ensure your money is returned appropriately.

Which Board Handles Tenancy Issues in PEI?

Rental disagreements and deposit issues fall under the authority of the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) - Rental Office. This is the official body managing landlord and tenant disputes, including any complaints about illegal deposits or rent practices.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation in PEI

The governing law is the Rental of Residential Property Act, which provides all regulations for deposits, rent, maintenance, and pet rules in Prince Edward Island.^[1]

For a full summary of your local rights, visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island page.

Related Forms and How to Respond as a Tenant

If you believe your landlord is violating PEI’s deposit laws, you can make a formal application or complaint to the IRAC Rental Office. The main form used is:

• Form 2 — Application by Tenant (Request to Return a Security Deposit or Remediate a Dispute)
  Use this form if your landlord is keeping a deposit illegally or has charged an unlawful amount (such as a pet deposit). Download and complete the form from the IRAC Rental Property Forms page.

Example: If your landlord asks you to pay an extra $200 as a "pet deposit," you can fill out Form 2 to start a dispute. Attach any communication or receipts showing the unlawful charge.

Key Points About Pet Deposits in PEI

• Only one security deposit is legally permitted per rental unit, with no special allowance for pets
• Landlords may set pet restrictions but cannot enforce or collect extra deposits for pets
• Disputes go through the IRAC Rental Office with official forms and guidance

For more tips on a smooth rental experience, check out our Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord ask for both a regular deposit and a pet deposit?
   No, under PEI law, landlords can only collect a single security deposit. Charging extra for pets is not legal.
2. What should I do if I was charged a pet deposit?
   Politely inform your landlord that separate pet deposits are not allowed, and consider filing a complaint with the IRAC Rental Office if needed.
3. Can I keep a pet if my lease says "no pets"?
   Landlords can legally restrict pets in rental agreements. Always get written permission if you plan to bring a pet into your rental unit.
4. How do I get my deposit back when moving out?
   If you leave the unit in good condition (without damages beyond normal wear and tear), your deposit (with any owed interest) should be returned. See: How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.
5. Where can I find pet-friendly rentals in PEI?
   You can Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca for up-to-date listings.

Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember

• PEI law allows for only one security deposit per unit; landlords cannot charge extra for pets.
• If you are wrongly charged, take action with IRAC using the proper forms.
• Carefully review your lease for pet clauses and know your options if disputes arise.

Stay informed and protect your rights by referencing official resources and acting promptly if problems occur.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• IRAC Rental Property Office – Tenant complaints, forms, and guidance
• Government of Prince Edward Island – Landlord and Tenant Information
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island
• Local tenant advocacy organizations (if you need free legal support)

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1. See: Rental of Residential Property Act (PEI) — especially section 10, "Security Deposits."

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