Can I ask for higher then advertised security deposit if renting to a high risk tenant?
I have an application from a tenant with several past evictions. I would like to give her a chance but it puts me at risk. I live in Maine and I usually ask and advertise for first months rent and a security deposit of the same amount as first months rent. The state allows for me to ask up to double the rent amount as a deposit, but would I get in trouble with any of the discrimination laws? She has children so I worry I might run afoul of laws protecting tenants with children. If I am allowed to increase the deposit from what is advertised for past evictions, are there any other factors that would allow me to do the same? So many laws to protect the tenant, but I still have to make the mortgage payment. Thanks ahead of time for any help.