What are Service Animals?
* Legally protected: The Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protect individuals with disabilities who use service animals.
* Trained for specific tasks: Service animals are trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities, such as:
* Guiding a person who is blind.
* Alerting a person who is deaf.
* Retrieving items for someone with mobility issues.
* Not Emotional Support Animals: ESAs are different. They provide emotional support but aren't trained for specific tasks. Landlords have more leeway in regulating ESAs.
Factors Influencing a Family's Rights:
* Individual Needs: The FHA/ADA applies to individuals, not families. Each family member with a disability who requires a service animal would need to demonstrate that need.
* Apartment Complex Rules: Some apartment complexes have pet restrictions that might allow for service animals but not regular pets.
* State Laws: Some states have specific laws regarding service animals and housing.
Important Considerations:
* Documentation: A person with a disability may be asked to provide documentation from a healthcare professional confirming their need for a service animal.
* Landlord's Responsibilities: Landlords cannot discriminate against someone with a disability who needs a service animal. They cannot deny housing or charge extra fees.
* Animal's Behavior: Landlords can restrict an animal if it poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others. However, this is a high bar to meet.
In Conclusion:
A family of six can have service animals if each individual needing one meets the requirements under the FHA/ADA.
It's crucial to:
* Check local laws: Research state and local regulations regarding service animals and housing.
* Contact the landlord: Discuss your needs with the landlord and provide appropriate documentation.
If you have specific concerns or need legal advice, it's best to consult with an attorney or a disability advocacy organization.