What is true regarding Jeff, a tenant with a service dog who causes damage to carpeting?

When considering the responsibilities of tenants with service animals, it is important to understand that while service animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act, this protection does not absolve tenants of responsibility for any damages caused by their pets, including service dogs. In this scenario, Jeff, as the tenant, is accountable for any damages that his service dog causes to the property. This means that if the service dog damages the carpeting, Jeff must cover the costs of those damages.

The distinction between normal wear and tear and actual damages is also significant. While normal wear and tear is generally accepted as the expected deterioration from regular use of property, damages caused by a service animal fall outside this category, particularly when they are not typical of usual living conditions. Therefore, it is Jeff's responsibility to repair or compensate for the specific damages caused by his service dog.

This understanding helps maintain a balance between upholding the rights of individuals with disabilities and ensuring the property owner can manage and maintain the integrity of the property.