●Free Tool
Are Your Apartment Fees Legal? Free Fee Checker
List every fee on your lease or monthly statement. We will check each one against your state's regulations and flag anything suspicious.
●Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my landlord charge mandatory fees on top of rent?
It depends on your state. Some states like California require all mandatory fees to be disclosed upfront. A few states restrict specific fee types (late fees, application fees). Many states have no restrictions at all.
Is a late fee of $100 legal?
Most states require late fees to be 'reasonable' — typically 5% of monthly rent or less. A $100 late fee on $1,500 rent (6.7%) may be challengeable. Some states cap late fees at a specific percentage or dollar amount.
Can I refuse to pay a valet trash fee?
If it is in your lease as a mandatory fee, refusing to pay could be considered a lease violation. However, if the service was added after lease signing without your agreement, you may have grounds to challenge it.
What is a junk fee in apartment rentals?
Junk fees are mandatory charges added on top of advertised rent: valet trash, amenity fees, pest control fees, technology packages, admin fees, and similar charges. They can add $100-$300+ per month to your actual housing cost.
About DepositHawk — DepositHawk is the renter's command center. Free tools to check your rights, audit your fees, and verify your rent. 50-state coverage.