Renter Looking To Get And Train Service Animal

[Riley Kuranishi]

Hi everyone,

I have a renter currently that says he is wanting to get a dog for service purposes to treat PTSD. However, he states that he wants to get it as a puppy and put it through training to become a service animal. 

I know that service animals and companions can't be charged pet rent but what about this case? If he is going to put it through training, it can typically take up to a year or longer. Since it is technically not a service animal yet can I charge pet rent for any potential damages that might occur while it's still being puppy trained?

I just want to be able to protect myself from damages while it's still learning to be this way. 

Thanks!

[Marcia Maynard]

Originally posted by @Thomas S.:

I would not give him options I would simply tell him either he can not have a pet based on a no pet policy or allow the pet and charge a fee.
If you do not allow pets now is the time to suggest to him that you will release him from the lease and he can move. The reason being is that he is lying about needing a service animal and simply wants a pet and is trying to avoid the fee. Rather than deal with this type of tenant you are better off getting rid of him. 

Finding good tenants is very simple and in your situation you can allow him as much time as necessary for you to find a replacement tenant without having any vacancy.

That approach could result in a lawsuit, or at least a complaint filed with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Department of Justice (DOJ), or the Office for Civil Rights (OCR). Also, unnecessarily creating a turnover, with all the associated work and expenses, doesn't make business sense.