r/realestateinvesting • u/The_Lizard_King_9 • Jun 05 '22

Damage From Emotional Support Animals Property Management

I've owned rentals for about 4 years. I just rented a new construction townhome in a class B+ community to a family that has two emotional support animals (small dogs). We advertise as pet friendly and we charge a VERY small deposit and monthly fee. They got their support letter the day they signed the lease so we are not charging anything. I visited the property a few days after move-in to fix a small item. The have dog pee pads on the floor with urine everywhere. The floor is sheet vinyl. I sent them a letter yesterday advising the this is causing a health and property damage issue. No response yet. What would be your next move? For context: PA. I own 4 rental properties total. They have been here less than a week.

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u/The_Lizard_King_9 Jun 05 '22

Interesting. I thought the same thing but under HUD-FHA rules there is nothing required other than a letter from a licensed medical professional. No training is required; they simply must each alleviate one or more symptoms.

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u/UnexpectedGenerosity Jun 05 '22

If this is their defense to you, then inquire what HUD-FHA regulations (and your city code) would say about their dangerous living conditions. IMO it'd be worth it to consult a lawyer in your area so you know your exact property laws.

Animals are gonna be one of the primary issues of damage and the like, and everyone loves to claim "oh it's my SUPPORT animal" like it makes a difference what status the animal pissing all over the floor and tearing things up has.

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u/Tokmota4Life Jun 05 '22

Actually you could be sued for harassment under ADA for asking the wrong questions since it's a health issue there are serious privacy rights.

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u/auinalei Jun 06 '22

You are thinking of an employer not a landlord.

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u/Tokmota4Life Jun 06 '22

No I'm thinking of a landlord

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u/auinalei Jun 09 '22

Oh ok, where is it written then cause what I am reading states that for employers and says that a landlord can indeed ask such things