"emotional support" bs pets and what landlords rights are

[Ryan Skinner]

Thinking about buying some duplexes. I have been out of the game for many years.  Wife who is a realtor, told me about new fair housing laws on emotional support pet laws. She said you can not refuse someone who claims their pet is a emotional support pet (if they have a letter from therapist?).  She said landlords are forced to take pets even if they have a no pet policy.  In addition she believes I could not even charge for a additional "pet rent" to the tenant.  Is any of this true, and what recourse do we have?...if any.

[Theresa Harris]

Sadly yes, but you can require documentation from a local doctor-none of this online BS.  If someone gets on part way through and the pet is causing damage, don't renew their lease.  Make sure your security deposit is large enough to cover any damage.

I don't agree that emotional support animals are service animals. Service animals have a lot of training, emotional support animals are a pet and nothing more.