In this guide
- Make your request in writing — email is perfect — and attach your ESA letter.
- Use the phrase “reasonable accommodation.” It tells your landlord this is a fair housing request, not a pet request.
- You don’t have to share your diagnosis. Keep it short and factual.
- Save copies of everything, with dates.
Asking your landlord about an emotional support animal can feel awkward, especially if your lease says “no pets.” It doesn’t have to be. A short, clear, written request is usually all it takes — and it protects you if questions come up later.
Below you’ll find exactly what to include, what to leave out, and an email template you can copy, paste and personalize.
Before you write: get your ESA letter
Your request is much stronger with documentation attached. An ESA letter from a licensed health care professional confirms that you have a disability-related need for your animal, without revealing private medical details. If you don’t have one yet, start with our guide on how to get a legitimate ESA letter online.
What to include in your ESA request
- The words “reasonable accommodation.” Under the Fair Housing Act, this is the name for an exception to a rule, like a no-pets policy, for a person with a disability.
- Your name, unit and the property address.
- Basic details about your animal — type, name, and size or breed if relevant.
- Your ESA letter as an attachment.
- A way to verify the letter. If your letter has an online verification code, include it.
- A polite request for a written response.
What to leave out
- Your diagnosis or medical history. You don’t need to share it, and landlords generally can’t demand it.
- Apologies or over-explaining. You’re making a legitimate request — keep it confident and short.
- Offers to pay pet rent or a pet deposit. Approved assistance animals generally aren’t charged these fees. (You are still responsible for any real damage.)
Free ESA request email template
Copy this, replace the parts in brackets, and attach your letter.
Subject: Reasonable accommodation request – [Your name], Unit [#]
Hello [Landlord or property manager name],
I’m writing to request a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act. I have a disability, and my licensed health care provider has determined that an emotional support animal helps with my condition.
I’m requesting that you allow my emotional support animal, [animal’s name], a [type of animal, e.g. “small mixed-breed dog” or “cat”], to live with me at [property address, unit #], as an exception to the property’s pet policy.
My letter from my provider is attached. You can confirm it online at [verification page link] using code [verification code].
I’ll continue to follow all property rules and will be responsible for any damage my animal causes. Please let me know in writing if you need anything else.
Thank you,
[Your name]
[Phone number]
When to send it
You can ask for an accommodation at any time:
- Before you apply — some people prefer to know up front.
- During the application or before signing — common when moving to a new place.
- After you’ve moved in — even if you already signed a no-pets lease.
Ideally, send your request before the animal moves in, so you have an answer in writing first.
What happens next
- Your landlord reviews the requestMany approve quickly once they can confirm the letter is real.
- They may ask follow-up questionsThat’s normal. They can ask for reliable documentation, but generally not for your diagnosis.
- Get the answer in writingIf it’s approved, save the email. If it’s denied, ask for the reason in writing.
If your landlord says no, our guide on whether a landlord can deny an emotional support animal walks through the valid reasons and your next steps.
Tips for a smooth approval
- Make verification easy. Landlords who can confirm a letter themselves tend to approve faster.
- Keep your letter current. Many landlords ask for a letter dated within the past year.
- Stay polite and professional. A cooperative tone helps, especially if the landlord is unfamiliar with ESA rules.
- Keep records. Save your request, letter and replies in one folder.
The bottom line
A short written request, a current ESA letter, and an easy way to verify it — that’s the formula. Use the template above, keep copies of everything, and you’ll give your landlord everything they need to say yes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to tell my landlord my diagnosis?
No. Your ESA letter confirms that you have a disability-related need for your animal. Landlords generally can’t require you to disclose your specific diagnosis or medical records.
Can I ask for an ESA after signing a no-pets lease?
Yes. You can request a reasonable accommodation at any time, including after you’ve moved in. Send the request in writing with your ESA letter.
Should I call or email my landlord?
Email or a written letter is best. It creates a dated record of what you asked for and what you sent, which is helpful if questions come up later.
How long does a landlord have to respond to an ESA request?
There isn’t a single fixed deadline in federal law, but landlords are expected to respond promptly. Unreasonable delays can be treated like a denial. If you don’t hear back, follow up in writing.
Can my landlord make me fill out their own form?
Some landlords use their own accommodation forms. You can usually fill them out, but you generally shouldn’t have to share your diagnosis or medical records. If a form asks for that, ask whether your ESA letter can be used instead.
This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. Laws and policies change and can vary by state, city and building. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
