In most cases, yes, an ESA letter waives pet fees. The Fair Housing Act (FHA) prohibits housing providers from discriminating against tenants with disabilities. This includes charging extra fees for emotional support animals (ESAs).

Does an ESA Letter Waive Pet Fees?

What is an ESA letter?

An ESA letter is a written statement from a licensed mental health professional that states that the patient has a disability that is substantially limited by one or more major life activities and that the patient needs the emotional support of an animal to help them cope with their disability.

ESA letters are not the same as service animal letters. Service animals are animals that have been trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities, such as guiding people who are blind or deaf or picking up objects for people who are unable to reach them.

What are pet fees?

Pet fees are extra charges that landlords may charge tenants who have pets. These fees can cover the cost of things like pet damage to the property, pet waste removal, and additional cleaning.

Does the FHA prohibit pet fees for ESAs?

Yes, the FHA prohibits pet fees for ESAs. This is because charging extra fees for ESAs would be considered discrimination against people with disabilities.

However, landlords are still allowed to charge pet deposits. Pet deposits are refundable fees that landlords may charge to cover the cost of any damage caused by the pet. Landlords are also allowed to charge reasonable fees for pet-related services, such as pet waste removal or additional cleaning.

What should I do if my landlord is charging me a pet fee for my ESA?

If your landlord is charging you a pet fee for your ESA, you should first try to talk to them about it. Explain that the FHA prohibits pet fees for ESAs and that you are not required to pay the fee.

If your landlord refuses to waive the pet fee, you can file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD is the federal agency that enforces the FHA. You can file a complaint online or by calling HUD's toll-free number.

Conclusion

In most cases, an ESA letter will waive pet fees. However, landlords are still allowed to charge pet deposits and reasonable fees for pet-related services. If your landlord is charging you a pet fee for your ESA, you should first try to talk to them about it. If they refuse to waive the fee, you can file a complaint with HUD.