Service Animal/Emotional Support Animal

[John8556]

Hi,

First I know a very complex problem so I’ll try to be as pointed as I can.

i am versed on the laws around service animals and emotional support animals and I support 100% not discriminating someone because of an animal in these categories.

Here is my challenge. My family has a severe allergy to animal (dog/cat) dander. I have read how a property owner cannot deny access etc for these animals, but I also have read that if the animal poses a direct health threat, like allergy, to the owner, then service animals can be disallowed.

i have also read that they can be banned if substantial alterations are needed to the home to make it safe.

so my question. What can i put in the listing to make people aware of this, without stating service animals are not allowed. Legally is it ok for me to state that due to the direct health and safety provision in the ADA rules on service animals, that service animals are not allowed?

I want to be careful because I don’t want to be sued for stating service animals are not allowed.

also, I have read that Airbnb allows owners to apply for an exemption. What does this look like and how is a property designated?

thanks!

[Joan2709]

@John8556 

You are correct in that you need to be very cautious about the whole topic of service animals and ESAs. If you want to prevent guests from showing up with a service animal, you need to contact Airbnb and advise them about the severe allergy issue. They will most likely require proof of the severe allergies (from a Doctor I would presume). Only when Airbnb approves the exemption may you put anything on the listing explaining you cannot host service animals or ESAs due to severe allergies and have received an exemption with Airbbnb. Until you get that exemption, you cannot refuse to Host a guest with a service animal as it is considered discrimination. You can refuse to Host a guest with an ESA (except in NY or CA in the USA).

[Helen3]

If you and your family have severe allergies and it's a homeshare then you can provide Airbnb with evidence from your doctor confirming this and you won't have to accept service animals @John8556