Can a housing provider ask for more documentation after a request for an assistance animal?

A housing provider is allowed to request additional documentation after a request for an assistance animal. This is consistent with the Fair Housing Act, which mandates that housing providers must make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including those who require assistance animals. However, in certain circumstances, providers can ask for verification to ensure that the request is legitimate and to confirm that the individual has a disability that necessitates the need for an assistance animal.

The criteria for requesting documentation typically include asking for information that helps to establish the necessity of the assistance animal. This may involve a letter from a healthcare provider or other relevant documentation that supports the request. The intent is to maintain a balance between accommodating individuals with disabilities and preventing potential abuses of the accommodation provision.

While housing providers do have the right to request more documentation, this must be done in a manner that respects the privacy and rights of the requestor, ensuring that any inquiries are relevant and not overly invasive. Therefore, the allowance for additional documentation is a crucial aspect of ensuring that the rights of individuals with disabilities are upheld while safeguarding against fraudulent claims.