All too often, our clients see more and more individuals attempting to move into their complex with a “companion animal” (i.e. Rosie, the 100 lb Pit Bull).
If you ever come across this situation, please call our office to explain the specifics of the matter and we can assist you in the best way to legally address the issue. We also have all of the necessary forms should you choose to allow the potential tenant and their companion animal to move in.
Note: In all cases, required verification of the companion animal is necessary before the tenant moves in. The tenant asserts that he or she is disabled as defined by the California Fair Employment and Housing Act.*
The tenant confirms that the requested companion animal accommodation is related to the tenant’s disability and is necessary to allow the tenant full use/enjoyment of the premises. The tenant understands that he or she is required to provide written verification from a health care provider or other credible third party who can competently verify the tenant’s disability and disability-related need for the companion animal.
[*The California Fair Employment and Housing Act Definition of Disability. Government Code Sections 12955.3 & 12926
“Disability” includes, but is not limited to, any physical or mental disability as defined below.
“Mental Disability” includes but is not limited to, all of the following:
1) Having any mental or psychological disorder or condition, such as intellectual disability, organic brain syndrome, emotional or mental illness, or specific learning disabilities that limits major life activity. For purposes of this section:
A) “Limits” shall be determined without regard to mitigating measures, such as medications, assistive devices, or reasonable accommodation, unless the mitigating itself limits a major life activity.
B) A mental or psychological disorder or condition limits a major life activity if it makes the achievement of the major life activity difficult.
C) “Major life activities” shall be broadly construed and shall include physical, mental, and social activities and working.
2) Any other mental or psychological disorder or condition not described in paragraph (1) that requires special education or related services.]