According to Pawlicy Advisor, 59.8% of Alabama households own a pet. But just because someone owns an animal doesn't necessarily mean they have a pet, which means they may be outside of this statistic.
You might not think the distinction between pet and non-pet is important, but if you're a landlord, it is. If you don't understand the nuances, then you may not be compliant with the law and can be subject to fines and penalties.
To learn the difference between support, emotional support animals, and pets, read on. We'll go over the details below so you're compliant.
Service Animals
Service animals in Huntsville, AL are animals that are rigorously trained to perform specific tasks. They may also work for people with disabilities.
Service animals can:
- Guide people with vision impairments
- Alert those with seizures
- Assist with mobility
- Provide support for those with psychiatric disabilities
These animals are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means that they're allowed to accompany their owners to most public places.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Emotional support animals in AL provide comfort and support to people who have mental or emotional disabilities. Unlike service animals, they aren't trained to perform specific tasks. Instead, their mere presence can help alleviate distressing symptoms.
ESAs aren't protected under the ACA, but they have some legal protection under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). These animals are allowed to live with their owners, even if the housing has a no-pets policy. However, they don't have the same public access rights as service animals.
Pets
Pets can provide services and emotional support for their owners, but they're mainly kept for companionship or pleasure.
Because they don't have a defined role related to any disability or emotional support, they don't have any legal protections beyond general animal welfare laws. They don't have public access rights, nor are they protected in housing situations unless they're an ESA.
The Key Differences
As a landlord, you'll probably run across all three with your tenants. So it's important that you know the key differences.
Basically, you have to allow service and emotional support animals. Plus, you aren't allowed to charge pet fees or deposits for them.
As for pets, you aren't obligated to allow them on your property. You'll likely get more tenant lease renewals if you do though, so that's something to consider.
Make Sure You're Compliant
Now you know the difference between service, emotional support animals, and pets. Essentially, the only one you can allow (or prohibit) from your property is pets since they're not legally protected. However, it's in your best interest to be pet-friendly, as you'll attract more renters.
If you need help with pet regulations in Huntsville, AL though, then hire a property manager. They'll have the exact expertise required to ensure your rental remains in good condition, without you worrying at all.
Contact us today for prime property management services. PMI North Alabama is a locally owned and independently operated business that understands what you need.
