Kentucky Rental Application Template

💵 Rental Application Fees

Kentucky **does not limit** application fees—landlords and agents may charge *any* amount they deem appropriate (e.g., to cover credit or background checks). These fees are typically **non-​refundable**. However, applicants must provide **written consent** for background or credit checks under the federal FCRA. ^[1][2]

✅ Exceptions — Applicant‑Paid Screening Reports

Landlords may require applicants to authorize and pay for background or credit screening. Tenants can sometimes choose to provide their own **recent self‑reports**, but the landlord may still **require use of official reports** processed under FCRA-compliant channels. ^[3]

📜 Tenant Copy Requirement

Under FCRA, if screening reports are used, applicants must be notified of **adverse decisions** and have rights to **dispute inaccuracies**. Written consent is also required. ^[4][5]

💰 Security Deposit & Fees

Kentucky law places **no cap** on security deposit amounts. Landlords are also permitted to charge **non‑refundable fees** such as pet or administrative fees. ^[6]

🏦 Deposit Handling & Return Timeline

• Deposits must be held in a **separate account** (bank or lending institution)—landlords must inform tenants of the **account name, location, and number**.
• Landlords have **30 days** after lease termination to return the deposit or provide an **itemized list of deductions**. Failing to comply may result in **forfeiture of the deposit** and liability for **twice the amount wrongfully withheld**, plus court costs.

🚫 Unauthorized Fees & Misuse of Deposits

There’s no explicit ban on “application” or “admin” fees in Kentucky—but Reddit users report abusive practices like excessive non‑refundable fees that are “pocketed even if the applicant isn’t approved.” Tenants have had to **dispute charges** or **charge back** through payment platforms. If you suspect unlawful charges or mishandled deposits, you may bring a claim in **small claims court** to recover **double damages** and fees.