Are landlords allowed to advertise “no pets” policies in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

Generally speaking, Virginia landlords are prohibited from advertising “no pets” policies in accordance with Fair Housing Law. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 makes it illegal for landlords to discriminate against potential tenants on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability. This includes refusing to rent to someone with a pet, or refusing to allow an ESA (emotional support animal) in a property. In counties or cities that have their own fair housing laws, landlords may be required to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with pets. Landlords should check the local ordinances to ensure they comply with any additional requirements that may exist. Landlords in Virginia are also required to allow service and emotional support animals on their premises, regardless of whether the individual has a pet policy in place. This means that landlords may not reject a tenant who needs an animal for emotional support or to assist with a disability. To sum up, it is important for landlords in Virginia to understand and comply with Fair Housing Law when it comes to advertising and enforcing pet policies. Although landlords may have “no pets” policies, they must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with service or emotional support animals. Additionally, they must not deny rental applications on the basis of an animal’s presence.

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Are landlords allowed to advertise “no pets” policies in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

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