Is your tenant asking to keep a pet in your Cleveland rental property? According to research, 74% of pet owners reported mental health improvements from pet ownership.
However, the presence of animals can be controversial when it comes to renting a home. Many people rely on animals for emotional support or assistance.
As such, landlords must navigate the differences between service animals, support animals, and pets. Understanding these distinctions is crucial. It will help foster a harmonious living environment that respects the rights of everyone involved.
Fortunately, you've found the right place. If you'd like more detail on the differences between these animals, keep reading.
Service Animals in a Rented Property
Service animals are specially trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. These animals are not considered pets. Instead, they're essential companions that enable their owners to navigate daily life.
Service animals differ from support animals and pets. They're protected under the:
- Fair Housing Act
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
As a landlord, you must make reasonable accommodations to allow tenants with disabilities to have their service animals. This means even in properties with no-pet policies. This accommodation extends to all types of housing, including:
- Apartments
- Condominiums
- Single-family homes
Emotional Support Animals in a Rental Property
Support animals are also referred to as emotional support animals (ESAs). They provide comfort and emotional support to people with mental health disorders or emotional disabilities.
However, unlike service animals, support animals do not need specific training to qualify for their role. Under the Fair Housing Act, people with a diagnosed disability can request a reasonable accommodation to keep a support animal in their residence.
This is true even if the tenancy agreement has a "no pets" policy. Additionally, ESAs are protected under the Air Carrier Access Act. This allows them to accompany their owners in an aircraft cabin.
Pets in a Rental Property
Pets refer to animals kept for companionship rather than specific assistance or support. Landlords and property managers have the right to impose pet policies, including restrictions on:
- Certain breeds (i.e., aggressive breeds)
- Sizes (i.e., large dogs may be prohibited)
- Number of pets allowed
These policies may also include additional deposits or monthly fees. These fees cover potential damages or cleaning expenses associated with pets.
Unlike service and support animals, pets in a rental do not have the same legal protection regarding accommodations. For this reason, tenants and landlords must communicate openly and transparently about animals in rental properties.
Service Animals, Support Animals, and Pets Unpacked
Understanding the differences between service animals, support animals, and pets in a rental property is crucial. Service animals are specially trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. They're also protected under the law.
Support animals provide emotional assistance. They may be granted specific accommodations. Unfortunately, pets do not have the same legal protections.
Is your tenant giving you grief about keeping pets in your rental property? At PMI CLE eAgent, it's our goal to make you feel like family. Enlist our property management services today, and we'll handle everything for you.
