Need an emotional support animal (ESA) to live with you? You might need to inform your landlord. An “Emotional Support Animal Sample Letter To Landlord” can help. It’s a formal way to request accommodation for your ESA. People often use these letters when renting a home.
Writing such letters can feel daunting. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll share some templates and examples to guide you.
This article offers various samples. These samples simplify the letter-writing process. You can easily write a letter that meets your needs. Let’s dive in!
Emotional Support Animal Sample Letter To Landlord
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to you today as a tenant at the property located at [Your Address]. I am requesting a reasonable accommodation to keep my emotional support animal, [Animal’s Name], with me in my apartment.
I have a disability, [briefly describe disability without too much personal detail], which substantially limits one or more major life activities. Due to this disability, I require the assistance of an emotional support animal. [Animal’s Name] provides me with therapeutic benefits that alleviate symptoms of my disability, such as [list a few symptoms, e.g., anxiety, depression, panic attacks]. [Animal’s Name]’s presence allows me to better function within my living environment.
I have attached documentation from my licensed mental health professional, [Therapist’s Name], that confirms my need for an emotional support animal. This letter explains the therapeutic benefits [Animal’s Name] provides and verifies the connection between my disability and the need for this animal.
I understand and will comply with all applicable rules and regulations regarding pet ownership, including local leash laws and waste disposal. I am responsible for [Animal’s Name]’s behavior and any damage it may cause. I will ensure that [Animal’s Name] does not create a disturbance or pose a threat to other residents.
I would appreciate it if you would consider my request. I am available to discuss this further at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write Emotional Support Animal Sample Letter To Landlord
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
- A subject line should be succinct and immediately convey the letter’s purpose.
- Example: “Request for Emotional Support Animal Accommodation” or “ESA Accommodation Request – [Your Name]”.
- Avoid ambiguous phrasing; directness is paramount.
Salutation: Establish a Formal Tone
- Begin with a respectful salutation.
- Use “Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. [Landlord’s Last Name],” unless you have been instructed otherwise.
- If you are unsure of the landlord’s name, “Dear Landlord” is a reasonable alternative, albeit less personalized.
Introduction: Disclose and Declare
- Start by clearly stating that you are a tenant at the property.
- Identify the specific unit you occupy.
- Explicitly declare that you are requesting accommodation for an emotional support animal.
- For instance: “I am writing to request a reasonable accommodation for my emotional support animal at the property located at [Your Address].”
Body Paragraph 1: Substantiate your Need
- Explain your disability or condition that necessitates an emotional support animal.
- You are not obliged to disclose the specifics of your condition, but you must articulate that you have a verifiable disability or condition recognized under the Fair Housing Act.
- State that you have a mental or emotional impairment.
- Confirm that your emotional support animal alleviates at least one symptom of your condition.
- Example: “Due to a mental health impairment, I require the assistance of an emotional support animal to mitigate some of the symptoms I experience daily. Having my ESA provides therapeutic benefits that ameliorate the effects of my condition.”
Body Paragraph 2: Describe your Animal
- Provide pertinent details about your emotional support animal.
- Specify the animal’s type, breed (if applicable), and name.
- Emphasize that your ESA is well-behaved and does not pose a threat to other residents or property.
- Include a statement that you are responsible for the animal’s conduct.
- Example: “My emotional support animal, [Animal’s Name], is a [Type of Animal], and is well-trained. I am entirely liable for its conduct.”
Supporting Documentation: Lend Credence
- Mention that you are including documentation from a licensed healthcare professional.
- This documentation should corroborate your need for an emotional support animal.
- State that the document verifies your impairment and the therapeutic benefits of the animal.
- “Enclosed, you will find a letter from my licensed healthcare provider, which validates my need for an emotional support animal and details how it assists with my impairment.”
Closing: Conclude with Respect and Anticipation
- Reiterate your request and express your anticipation of a favorable response.
- Include your contact information and available times to discuss further.
- Close with a courteous sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name.
- Example: “Thank you for considering my request. I am available to discuss this matter further at your convenience. Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address]. Sincerely, [Your Name].”
Frequently Asked Questions: Emotional Support Animal Sample Letter to Landlord
This section addresses common inquiries regarding Emotional Support Animal (ESA) sample letters intended for landlords. Understanding the legal framework and proper documentation is crucial for a smooth request process.
What is the purpose of an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letter to a landlord?
The letter serves to inform your landlord that you have an ESA prescribed by a licensed mental health professional, allowing you to request reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), even in properties with a “no pets” policy.
What information should be included in an ESA letter to a landlord?
The letter should include your name, a statement that you have a disability and require an ESA, a description of the animal, a request for reasonable accommodation under the FHA, and the contact information of the licensed mental health professional.
Is a sample ESA letter legally binding?
A sample letter is a template and not legally binding on its own. The validity depends on whether it is accompanied by a legitimate recommendation from a licensed mental health professional who has assessed your need for an ESA.
Can a landlord deny my ESA request even with a letter?
A landlord can deny the request if the ESA poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others, causes substantial physical damage to the property, or if your request is not supported by proper documentation from a licensed mental health professional.
Where can I find a suitable sample ESA letter to send to my landlord?
Numerous websites offer sample ESA letters; however, prioritize templates that clearly state the necessary information and adhere to the guidelines of the Fair Housing Act. Consult with legal resources to ensure compliance.
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