Support Dog Clarification

[Michael Craig]

Hello,

I have an apartment that is not suitable for a pet. The tenant of this apartment asked if they could get a dog. I responded saying they cannot. The tenant then claimed that their significant other is going through something and that this dog will serve as a support animal.

Here's the KICKER:

The significant other is not on the lease as they moved in months ago to flee NYC. 

As a LL am I obligated to allow a tenant to purchase a support animal after they have moved in?

As a LL am I obligated to make special arrangements for a tenant who is not on the lease?

Thanks in advance.

  

[Amy Aziz]

@Michael Craig In California if the person is not on the lease you do not need to accommodate them or their emotional support animal because they are guests unless the tenant and the guest come to you and let you know they will be staying for an X amount of days and here is their documents for the ESA. Emotional support animals, need to provide you with sufficient documentation that the animal is actually prescribed by a medical professional.