Emotional Support Animal

[LuAnn Miller]

We recently vetted a tenant that informed us after move in, they have a service animal.  Actually, we discovered they had an animal in their apartment and probed them for answers since we do not allow pets.  We have requested a copy of the ESA request from their licensed mental health provider and only received a letter from a nurse practitioner.  We have requested twice to have this letter from a "licensed mental health provider on their official office letterhead" to no avail.  Are you aware of any time limit we have to wait for this information?  Can we legally give them a time limit to have it or be evicted?  By the way, they also sent their rent check unsigned.  If you have experience in this realm I would be interested in your insight.  TIA

[Russell Brazil]

Tread carefully. HUDs guidance memo does state if the disability is not readily apparent you may request proof from a "physician, psychiatrist, social worker, or a mental health professional." I think many would contend that a Nurse Practioner or Physiciand Assistant, both of which can prescribe medication or treatment would fall under the blanket of physician for this purpose.