ESA Letter Sample for Landlord: A Complete Guide with Example
Introduction
One of the most common challenges ESA owners face is convincing landlords that their Emotional Support Animal is legally protected. Since many rental properties have strict “no-pet” policies or charge expensive pet fees, tenants often worry about whether their ESA will be accepted.
This is where an ESA letter for landlords comes in. A properly written letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) serves as official proof that your animal is not just a pet, but a necessary part of your emotional well-being.
In this guide, you’ll see what a valid ESA letter for landlords should include, view a sample ESA letter, and learn how to use it effectively when dealing with housing providers.
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Don’t wait until a landlord or airline tells you “no pets allowed.” Protect your rights today.
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What is an ESA Letter for Landlords?
An ESA letter for landlords is a formal document written by a licensed professional—such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor—confirming that you require the companionship of an Emotional Support Animal to help manage a mental or emotional condition.
Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords must accept your ESA if you provide a valid letter, even if the building has a no-pet policy.
Why Do Landlords Need an ESA Letter?
- Proof of Legitimacy
- It reassures landlords that your request is backed by a medical or mental health professional.
- Legal Obligation
- Without written proof, landlords are not required to make accommodations.
- Clear Communication
- A letter makes the process smoother, avoiding unnecessary disputes.
What Must Be Included in an ESA Letter for Landlords?
A valid ESA letter should contain:
✅ The patient’s name (you)
✅ Confirmation of a mental or emotional disability
✅ Statement that an ESA is part of the treatment plan
✅ Provider’s name, license number, and state of licensure
✅ Provider’s contact information
✅ Signature and date
✅ Official letterhead
ESA Letter Sample for Landlord
Here’s an example of what a valid ESA letter might look like:
[Licensed Professional’s Letterhead]
Date: [MM/DD/YYYY]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am a licensed mental health professional currently treating [Patient’s Full Name]. Based on my professional evaluation, I have determined that [he/she/they] has a mental or emotional disability as recognized under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
In my professional opinion, the presence of an Emotional Support Animal is necessary for the mental health and well-being of my patient. The animal provides therapeutic benefits that help alleviate symptoms associated with their condition.
As such, under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), [Patient’s Name] is entitled to live with their Emotional Support Animal, even in housing with a no-pet policy. Please note that this animal is not considered a pet but an important component of their emotional health plan.
If you have any questions regarding this letter, I may be reached at [Provider’s Phone Number] or [Provider’s Email Address].
Sincerely,
[Provider’s Full Name, Title]
[Professional License Number, State]
[Signature]
How to Present an ESA Letter to Your Landlord
- Submit a Copy
- Provide your landlord with a digital or physical copy of the letter.
- Keep it Professional
- Be polite and straightforward in communication.
- Know Your Rights
- Landlords cannot charge pet deposits or deny your ESA unless it poses a direct threat or causes significant property damage.
- Offer Verification
- Some landlords may contact the provider to verify authenticity (but not to request private medical details).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Submitting a letter without a licensed provider’s credentials
❌ Using a fake online template without professional signature
❌ Providing outdated letters (most landlords require renewal every 12 months)
❌ Hiding your ESA from your landlord instead of being transparent
Legal Rights with an ESA Letter for Landlords
Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA):
- Landlords must make reasonable accommodations for ESAs.
- They cannot charge additional pet deposits or monthly pet rent.
- They cannot deny housing solely because of your ESA (except in rare cases, such as owner-occupied small buildings).
FAQs: ESA Letters for Landlords
Q1: Can a landlord reject my ESA with a valid letter?
Only in limited situations—if the ESA poses a direct threat, causes excessive damage, or if the housing type is exempt under the FHA.
Q2: Does my ESA letter need to state my diagnosis?
No. The letter should confirm your need for an ESA but not disclose private medical details.
Q3: Can my landlord call my therapist?
Yes, but only to verify authenticity—not to request confidential health information.
Q4: How long does my ESA letter last?
Typically, ESA letters need to be renewed annually.
Conclusion
An ESA letter sample for landlords provides a clear template of what your document should look like and helps you understand the exact information required. With a valid letter from a licensed professional, you are protected under the Fair Housing Act, ensuring your emotional support animal can live with you without discrimination.
If you’re preparing to move into a new rental or are worried about a strict landlord, having a professionally written ESA letter is the best way to secure your housing rights and protect the bond you share with your emotional support animal.
”Get Yours Now!
Don’t wait until a landlord or airline tells you “no pets allowed.” Protect your rights today.
Please fill out this form and our team wil contact you ASAP.
Complete your assessment in minutes , get approved by a licensed professional, and receive your letter within 24 hours.