🧏 ESA Verification Request
Fair Housing Compliant Documentation Request — Emotional Support Animals
Fair Housing Compliant Documentation Request: Landlords may request documentation for an Emotional Support Animal when the disability or disability-related need is not obvious. You may NOT ask for the specific diagnosis, but may request verification that (1) the tenant has a disability, and (2) the ESA alleviates symptoms. Never charge pet fees or deposits for verified ESAs. Denial of a valid ESA request is a Fair Housing violation.
🏠 Property & Tenant
🐕 ESA Information
📋 Documentation Required
We are requesting the following documentation from a qualified healthcare provider (licensed physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed therapist):
1. Confirmation that you have a disability within the meaning of the Fair Housing Act
2. Confirmation that the ESA provides disability-related assistance or emotional support
Note: We are NOT requesting your specific diagnosis, medical records, or detailed personal health information.
No Pet Fees: If the ESA request is verified, no pet deposit, pet fee, or monthly pet rent may be charged. The ESA must be permitted in the rental unit as a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act.
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🔍 Order Screening Report →ESA Verification Request — Fair Housing Compliance Guide
The Fair Housing Act requires landlords to provide reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities, including allowing Emotional Support Animals regardless of no-pet policies. However, landlords may request documentation when the need is not obvious.
What You Can and Cannot Ask For
- You MAY ask for: Confirmation of disability (general), statement that the ESA alleviates symptoms
- You may NOT ask for: Specific diagnosis, medical records, detailed health information, proof the animal is trained
- Who can provide it: Licensed physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed therapist (telehealth providers are acceptable in most cases)
After Receiving Documentation
Once verified, the ESA must be permitted. No pet deposit, fee, or monthly pet rent may be charged. The tenant is still responsible for damages caused by the animal. See the emotional support animal guide and pet & ESA laws by state.
⚖ Legal Disclaimer
These forms are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. FCRA requirements are complex and strictly enforced — violations carry statutory damages of $100–$1,000 per violation plus actual damages and attorney fees. Fair Housing law prohibits discrimination based on protected characteristics. Apply screening criteria consistently to all applicants. Consult a qualified attorney before making screening decisions. See our editorial standards for accuracy details.
