Can my landlord charge me for a pet deposit for having a dog at my apartment for one day?
Answers:
If it's in your lease, or the stated policy of the apartment, yes.
If the pet did not do any damage, then the landlord must return the deposit when you move out, the same as the damage deposit.
Edit:
Whoever suggested taking it to court is off on their own little rant, but it's going to cost *you*. Guests are certainly bound by the lease provisions, and for any clause involving pets, it wouldn't matter who owns the pet. If it's in your lease, and you force the landlord to sue, you'll lose, and possibly be evicted.
Is the deposit so large that it's impossible for you to pay? If not, pay the deposit, and then you won't have any hassles if your GF wants to bring her dog over another time. You can also try to negotiate with the landlord, and offer to pay part of the deposit since the dog was only there for a day. You have some options, but outright refusing to pay is probably not one of them.
Now, if the landlord is forcing you to pay a *fee*, and not a *deposit*, that's different. A pet or damage deposit must be returned when you move out - if there's no damage; it's basically just insurance for the landlord. Many states even require the landlord to pay interest on the deposits, so it will actually make you a bit of money if you're in one of those states. On the other hand, if he's just trying to charge you a non-returnable "damage fee", and the pet didn't do damage, you can fight that, although if the lease allows it, you're still probably out of luck.
Other answers:
They probably can, but thats being too picky, What a Jerk.
They probably can, but thats being too picky, What a Jerk.
Well if you signed the lease you have to pay it. I guess that is so in case the dog does any damage in the one day he is there.
Read you lease -- apparently it says they can charge you, and apparently you signed it. so-looks like you are stuck with a payment.
You could always go to the landlord and ask for forgiveness and mercy, however.
If the pet was a guest, and did not stay overnight, refuse to pay. Let the landlord take you to court(it will be small-claims court) and explain the situation. Guests are not subject to the lease clauses, in general. Inspect your guest clause in the lease.
Good luck, and if you have a problem, contact PETA. They may be mostly off-base, as far as I am concerned, but they know their stuff.
(What is PETA? People for the Ethical treatment of Animals)
Good luck.
what ever is written in your lease is usually law