Service Animal Rental Rules

Summary

California landlords cannot ask about service or emotional support animals on rental applications. They can request documentation separately to verify the need for the animal from a reliable third party, such as a healthcare provider. Landlords may use a Reasonable Accommodation Request Form for this purpose. They must not inquire about the nature of the disability.

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Are there applications for rent in California which asks about service animal / emotional support animals
In California, landlords cannot ask about service or emotional support animals on a rental application. They must make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, which includes allowing service or emotional support animals. However, they can request documentation proving the need for the animal.
Can landlord ask about service or emotional support animals on a different document?
Yes, in California, while landlords cannot ask about service or emotional support animals on a rental application, they can ask for documentation on a separate document to verify the need for the animal. This must be from a reliable third party, such as a healthcare provider.
How could a landlord ask a prospective tenant to disclose if they have service or emotional support animals?
In California, a landlord may inquire if an assistance animal is required due to a disability and ask for documentation from a reliable third-party, like a healthcare provider. However, the landlord must not inquire about the nature of the disability.
How could a landlord ask a prospective tenant to disclose if they have service or emotional support animals before signing a lease?
A California landlord can ask if a tenant needs an assistance animal due to a disability, and request documentation from a reliable third party like a healthcare provider. This should be done before signing the lease, but remember not to inquire about the nature of the disability.
Is there a form that takes care of this issue as a written document?
Yes, landlords can use a "Reasonable Accommodation Request Form" where tenants can declare their need for an assistance animal due to a disability. They can attach their healthcare provider's documentation to this form. This should be done before signing the lease.