Are landlords required to make reasonable accommodations for emotional support animals under Fair Housing Law?
Yes, landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for emotional support animals under Fair Housing Law in New York. According to the Fair Housing Act, it is illegal for landlords to refuse any reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, which include mental and emotional impairments. The New York State Division of Human Rights explains that these accommodations may include allowing emotional support and therapy animals into housing where pets are usually prohibited, so long as they are necessary to afford the tenant equal opportunity to use and enjoy their dwelling. For instance, if a tenant needs an emotional support animal to help manage their depression or anxiety, the landlord must make an accommodation to allow the animal as long as the animal does not pose any health or safety risk to other tenants. In New York, landlords may require reasonable documentation from a healthcare professional or other licensed mental health provider confirming the tenant’s disability and need for an emotional support animal. The landlord may not charge the tenant a pet deposit or fee for the animal, but the tenant is responsible for any damage caused by the animal. Overall, landlords are obligated to make reasonable accommodations for emotional support animals under Fair Housing Law in New York. With an appropriate documentation, tenants with mental and emotional impairments may be allowed to keep their emotional support animal in their dwelling despite any official pet policies that may be in place.
Related FAQs
How can a tenant file a complaint against a landlord violating Fair Housing Law?Are there any legal remedies available to those who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to have different rental policies for different tenants in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Are there any legal remedies available to tenants who have been discriminated against under Fair Housing Law?
Are there any specific prohibitions under Fair Housing Law?
What discrimination is prohibited under the Fair Housing Act?
Is a landlord required to make reasonable modifications to units for disabled tenants in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Do occupancy limits apply under Fair Housing Law?
Are there any penalties for landlords who violate Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to select tenants based on income in accordance with Fair Housing Law?
Related Blog Posts
What is Fair Housing Law and How Does it Impact Home Ownership? - July 31, 2023Understanding Your Rights Under Fair Housing Laws - August 7, 2023
Learn How to Protect Yourself from Housing Discrimination Under Fair Housing Law - August 14, 2023
What is Covered Under the Fair Housing Act and How Does it Affect Landlords? - August 21, 2023
Navigating the Complicated Rules and Regulations of Fair Housing Law - August 28, 2023