Lease questions re:pets

[Anonymous]

We are moving this summer to an overseas post for 2-3 years and will be renting out our house while we are gone. We did this once previously and used a property management company and were not happy with either them or the renters so this time we found our own renters through friends and will be dealing with them directly.

Right now I am finalizing the lease and trying to figure out what to include re:pets. They have a cat which is fine with me, but I told them I want a separate security deposit for the pet. What is an appropriate amount and should it be refundable or non refundable? (Last time we said no pets, which of course the renters violated...) Also, the lease we plan to use says they are responsible for having someone come and treat for fleas etc. and provide a paid receipt before moving out. Is this standard? Also it was suggested to me that we have our ducts cleaned after having the cat living in the house. Is this overkill or a good idea?

[Anonymous]

We have paid refundable deposits for our pets -- anywhere from $200-$500 (on a $2300 mo rent). It's just to cover extra pet damage -- like carpet tears or screen damage. We also had to pay for professional carpet cleaning when we moved out and provide a receipt. Used sears so it was $200 or so on a one level house.

I think the ducts cleaning and flea cleaning is overkill. If you find fleas, use deposit to clean and reduce return amount