Got my first service animal request

[Nicole Heasley Beitenman]

After 10 years of landlording, I finally got my first request with a "service animal" 🤦‍♀️ A 10-pound chihuahua and a 60-pound mixed breed (German shepherd, rat terrier, and hound). The house is a 500 SF 1 bed 1 bath in Ohio. They're willing to pay any additional fees, but if they're service animals, my understanding is I cannot charge them any fees or pet rent.

From what I've gathered, I can ask for a letter from a healthcare provider that the tenant was "prescribed" a service animal for a disability, but they do not have to disclose what the disability is, nor am I permitted to ask for specifics regarding the diagnosis. I can ask about the animal's specific tasks and training. I can also ask for proof that the animal is trained, vaccinated, and licensed in compliance with local regulations.

Is this accurate? Bonus points if you're able to provide a resource I can refer to.

[Arman Ahmed]

@Nicole 

You’re spot on with most of what you shared — under the Fair Housing Act, you generally cannotcharge fees or pet rent for service or emotional support animals, and you’re limited in what you can ask. For emotional support animals, you can request documentation from a licensed healthcare provider stating the need, but like you said, not the specific diagnosis. For service animals (as defined under the ADA), they should be trained to perform specific tasks related to a disability.

Since you’re in Ohio, this HUD resource is super helpful — it breaks down what landlords can ask, what’s off-limits, and how to navigate legitimate vs. questionable requests. It also includes examples and a decision tree that makes it easier to apply.

Medium-term rentals can be tricky with animals in smaller spaces, so you’re right to want clarity here. You’re doing the right thing by asking questions and documenting everything!