At least 44% of Lakeland, FL, residents rent their accommodations, making the city an excellent place to own investment property. Being a landlord isn't always a matter of supply and demand, though; it's a challenging undertaking involving many complex decisions.
One of these is whether to allow pets in your rental home. The answer isn't as simple as it seems.
As a landlord, you don't always have the final say when it comes to accommodating service and support animals, and understanding the distinctions between these categories is crucial for Lakeland, FL, landlords.
In this article, we will break down the differences between service animals, emotional support animals, and pets, while also addressing landlords' responsibilities for accommodating them.
Service Animals
Service animals are specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs are the only type of animal recognized as a service animal, and their roles are significant.
They can:
- Guide individuals who are visually impaired
- Assist people with hearing impairments
- Pull wheelchairs
- Alert individuals to medical issues such as seizures
It is important for landlords to recognize that service animals are not considered pets.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Emotional support animals provide comfort and support to individuals suffering from emotional or psychological conditions. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specific training for certain tasks.
Their mere presence can help alleviate anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. ESAs do not have the same public access rights as service animals under the ADA.
Landlords may request proof of the need for an ESA if the person's disability is not immediately apparent. This usually takes the form of a letter from a mental health professional to validate the need for an emotional support animal.
For landlords in the Lakeland, FL area, understanding the difference between ESAs and service animals can help establish appropriate policies for tenants.
Companion Animals
Pets include a wide range of animals, from goldfish to horses, and generally serve as companions for their owners. Pets do not provide specialized support for a disability.
Landlords may require tenants to adhere to pet policies. These include:
- Size limitations
- Pet deposits
- Breed restrictions
Accommodating pets has several benefits for landlords. Pet-friendly properties attract more tenants and command higher rentals than non-pet-friendly rentals.
Landlords' Responsibilities
Landlords must comply with fair housing laws when it comes to service animals and ESAs. They must waive all pet-related policies when accommodating service animals, including pet deposits and no-pet restrictions.
More Questions Answered
Understanding the differences between service animals, emotional support animals, and pets ensures that living spaces are accommodating while adhering to the law.
As a landlord, remember that enhancing the well-being of your tenants is not just a legal obligation; it also makes financial sense. Hiring a property manager is the best way to ensure you stay current with real estate legislation, attract more tenants, and protect your property's value.
Archer Crown Property Management can help you achieve all the above and more. We are an established, veteran-run property management company offering transparent property management services with no hidden fees or markups on standard services.
Reach out today for assistance with all your questions about service animals, support animals, and more.
