usually requires the landlord to allow the animal. However, there are times where a landlord can deny a legitimate assistance animal. According to HUD, the landlord may refuse to allow an assistance animal when: Allowing the animal would impose too much of a financial and administrative burden, Allowing the animal would require an extreme change to the rental property, or The assistance animal is dangerous and would be a threat to the health or safety of others. How do I prove that I need an assistance animal? Landlords can require tenants to provide a doctor's note that says they are disabled and need the animal. Documentation from a physician, psychiatrist, social worker, or other mental health professional should say that the tenant has a disability and that the animal will provide disability-related assistance or emotional support. However, a landlord may not ask for information about how severe the disability is, demand medical records, or request any other medical details. Additionally, landlords can ask the tenant to show that their animal is healthy and vaccinated. Is my landlord allowed to charge fees for my assistance animal? No. It is unlawful for landlords to (1) charge additional rent, (2) demand a pet deposit, or (3) charge any fees whatsoever for an assistance animal. The Fair Housing Act guarantees this protection. You are still responsible for any damage the animal does to the property. Can a landlord refuse an assistance animal based on breed? No. Service and emotional support animals can be any breed or size. However, the landlord may prohibit an animal if it is dangerous to others. Do I have to let my landlord know that I have an assistance animal before signing a lease?
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