Landlords are increasingly charging fees in addition to rent. These can include everything from high rental application fees to excessive late fees to required “benefits packages” often with services that tenants don’t want or can buy on their own. 

These charges are sometimes referred to as “junk fees.” This is because the fees landlords and property management companies charge renters are often considerably higher than what it costs them to perform the service the fee covers. For example, rental application fees are often higher than what landlords must pay for credit and background checks. 

Below are some of the charges usually considered  “junk fees.” Some, such as application fees, are usually one-time costs. Others, such as utility-related fees, are often paid monthly.

What are some ‘junk fees’?

• High rental application fees, especially those that at least $100
• Excessive late fees
• Processing and administrative fees tacked on after a rental application is approved.
• Utility-related fees that landlords charge tenants to have gas, electric and other utility companies deliver service to a unit, building or complex.
• Insurance fees to cover the costs landlords pay for insuring their property.
• Cable and technology package fees, which can be mandatory fees tenants pay for cable and internet service, even if they don’t want these services.
• Rent payment fees charged for using a specific payment method. For example, a tenant may be charged for paying their rent online but not for paying by writing a check. Many tenants say that their landlords charge fees for all payment types, and it is often the same amount.
• Sometimes mandatory “benefits packages” that can include things such as renter’s insurance and “streamlined communication channels for maintenance requests.”

Tenants can purchase insurance directly from an insurance company. They don’t need to go through a landlord. They may not want services such as “streamlined communication channels.” They want to be able to request maintenance.

Signal Cleveland is digging into affordable housing with: The Housing Squeeze.

Stories in the series examine Cleveland’s affordable housing landscape through the experiences of renters and homeowners and with an eye toward solutions.

Have you run into ‘junk fees’ or other excessive fees when searching for or renting a home?

Signal Cleveland would like to hear about your experience and if it changed what you could afford to pay. 

Complete the form below, and include as many details as possible about the junk fees you have paid or are paying. Please be specific. For example: I was charged a $150 application fee that was not refundable if I didn’t get the apartment. 

Include your name and telephone number if we can contact you. We look forward to hearing from you, preferably by July 1.