The decision to allow pets in Southern Maryland rental properties often raises debates among owners. Key considerations include whether to permit pets, which types to allow, and associated fees. A critical issue arises when an owner opts not to allow pets but faces an application for a service animal, especially if that animal is from a restricted breed. This is particularly challenging in Maryland, where insuring rental properties that cover breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans is often difficult, and Dobermans can be nearly impossible.
Do You Have to Rent to Someone Who Has a Pit Bull As a Service Dog?
Answer: Yes
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Fair Housing Act protects those with disabilities in need of service animals and/or emotional support animals. Because of this federal law, an animal considered to be an aggressive breed, such as a Pit Bull, is protected and must be allowed into a rental property if it is determined to be a service animal, despite any local laws that prohibit the breed.
Fair housing laws can be a bit tricky in this regard. If a disability is not obvious, a landlord cannot ask what the disability is, but can ask for documentation that there is a disability with a need for a service or emotional support animal. If the animal is strictly a pet, the landlord has every right to deny any animal or breed of animal.
Have you had an experience with a service animal in your rental home?
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First published by Real Property Management Gold on August 27, 2015. Details may have changed since then; current rules are in the Landlord Center.
