Many people with disabilities depend on their service animal to get around and perform basic tasks. In the United States, there are currently around 500,000 service dogs.
Conversely, many people suffering from anxiety and similar disorders can rely heavily on support animals. But what happens when you're trying to rent?
Renting a property can be challenging when you have an animal, especially a dog. But is it different when it's a service animal? What about an emotional support animal or a pet?
This blog explores this topic, so join in the conversation as we discuss the difference between these animals and how they can affect your rental agreement.
What Are Service Animals?
We all know the definition of a pet, but at first glance, you may think that service and support animals are the same. However, in truth, they're very different.
As the Americans with Disabilities Act states, a support animal is specifically trained to help people with disabilities. Typically service animals are dogs, but they can also be miniature horses.
These animals are usually trained for several years, costing thousands of dollars. People with service dogs are granted extra rights and can take their animals to places where regular animals are not allowed. For example, they are allowed in restaurants and grocery shops.
What Are Support Animals?
Support animals, or emotional support animals (ESA), differ from service animals because they are not specifically trained to perform tasks. Instead, they are there to provide emotional support for their owner. This emotional support is provided through companionship and can help with disorders like:
- Anxiety
- Bipolar
- PTSD
- Depression
- Chronic stress
A medical professional can prescribe an emotional support animal. However, they have much fewer rights than service animals.
If you require one, your doctor will write a letter that states the ESA is necessary for medical purposes. This letter can be helpful if you need to do things like fly with your ESA, so long as they can be seated at the owner's feet without protruding into the aisle.
Animals and Rental Agreements
As a landlord, it's entirely your decision if you'd like to allow service or support animals in a rental property. Regarding rights, however, service animals are not considered pets. This means a pet clause in your rental agreement doesn't apply to them, and no extra fee can be charged.
There are no rights for pets and emotional support animals regarding the Fair Housing Act. As a landlord, you can refuse prospective tenants if they have any. If you don't want to risk getting sued over discrimination, consider hiring a property management company.
They can handle tenant screening and lease agreements. A good property manager will be well-versed in the legal implications and can help you navigate the legal waters around this topic.
Hire The Best Property Management Company Today
Understanding the differences between pets, service, and support animals is crucial if you own investment properties. Pets and support animals can be allowed in the rental at your discretion.
However, you cannot discriminate against someone with a valid service animal. If you're concerned about navigating the legal aspects, hire a rental property management company to assist.
We're here to help you if you need a full-service property management company in the Merced, CA, area. Contact us today, and let us handle your investment property needs.
