Today we are talking about service animals and whether you can deny renting to tenants who have service animals. Many landlords have pet policies in place however service animals are not considered pets. You cannot deny a tenant based on their need for a service animal.
In different areas, we know that this requirement is sometimes abused. People are registering dogs as service animals that might be questionable. But if someone comes to apply for your apartment or home and they have a service animal, you cannot 
deny them based on that need.
The service animals do need to be registered and you should ask for their documentation. Beyond that, you need to follow the law remember that you cannot deny a tenant based on that.
Service animals are not terribly common in our area, but you don’t want to get into trouble or violate any laws. If you have any questions or want to talk about this further, contact us at Real Property Management Southwest Michigan.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
