Lease dictionary
Assistance animal
An animal that helps a person with a disability, which housing providers usually must allow as a reasonable accommodation.
Under the federal Fair Housing Act, assistance animals include service animals and emotional support animals. They aren't treated as pets, so pet bans, pet rent and pet deposits generally don't apply.
A landlord may ask for reliable documentation when the disability or need is not obvious, and can deny a specific animal that poses a direct threat or would cause substantial damage.
Watch out
You are still responsible for any damage the animal causes beyond normal wear and tear.
See it in action
The Lease red-flag checker puts this term to work for you.