How to Get an ESA Letter for Housing (FHA Guide)

How to Get an ESA Letter

For housing, Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are covered by the Fair Housing Act (FHA). An ESA letter from a licensed healthcare professional allows you to request a reasonable accommodation in housing that normally restricts pets. The ADA does not grant ESAs public access like service dogs, so this letter is specifically for housing needs.

Who Can Write an ESA Letter?

A licensed mental health professional or other licensed healthcare provider (e.g., psychologist, psychiatrist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, licensed physician/NP where allowed) who is qualified to assess your condition and has a professional relationship with you. The letter should come from a provider licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.

Step-by-Step: Getting Your ESA Letter

1. Schedule an appointment. Meet with your licensed provider (in person or via legitimate telehealth) to discuss symptoms and functional needs.
2. Discuss how an animal helps. Explain how the animal alleviates one or more symptoms of your condition (e.g., reduces anxiety, improves sleep, encourages activity).
3. Request a housing accommodation letter. Ask for an ESA letter for FHA housing. You do not need to disclose your diagnosis to a landlord—only your eligibility and need.
4. Provide the letter to your housing provider. Submit it with any forms they require. Keep a digital copy for easy sharing.
5. Renew periodically. Many housing providers ask for a recent letter (often within the last 12 months). Check your lease or request for their policy.

What the ESA Letter Should Include

• Printed on the provider’s letterhead with name, license type/number, state, and contact info
• Date of issue
• A statement that you have a disability and that an ESA helps alleviate one or more symptoms
• Optional but helpful: animal type/name (dog, cat, etc.)
• Provider’s signature

What Your Landlord Can—and Can’t—Require

• Can request your ESA letter to evaluate the accommodation
• Cannot require you to register your ESA in any “national database” (none exists)
• Cannot charge pet rent or pet fees because an ESA is not a pet (you’re still responsible for damage)
• Cannot deny solely due to breed/size; must assess the specific animal’s behavior

Sample Ways to Ask Your Provider

“I struggle with anxiety at home and my symptoms improve when I’m with my dog. Would you consider writing an ESA housing letter under the FHA?”

“I’ve read that an ESA letter can be a reasonable accommodation for housing. Based on my treatment history, is this appropriate for me?”

Quick Facts

• ESAs have housing rights under the FHA—not public access under the ADA, and not airline access as service animals.
• No government registry or certification is required or recognized for ESAs.
• A well-behaved animal and clear communication with your housing provider make the process smoother.

Need an example to share with your provider? We offer a clear Sample ESA Letter they can reference when drafting yours.

This article is for general information only and isn’t legal or medical advice. Check local requirements and your housing provider’s timelines.