ESA Legal Rights & Qualifications in Texas
Understanding how Emotional Support Animal letters work under the Fair Housing Act helps you communicate clearly with Texas landlords and property managers.
Licensed Provider
Written by a Texas licensed mental health professional who can identify a qualifying mental health condition.
Clinical Justification
Explains how your ESA helps reduce symptoms at home and supports daily functioning.
HUD Compliant
Follows current HUD and Fair Housing Act guidance for assistance animals.
Verifiable Credentials
Includes provider name, license number, practice location, and signature for verification.
Housing Focused
Focused on housing rights, not ESA registrations or ID card databases.
Legal Protection
Pet deposits and monthly pet rent usually do not apply to ESAs under Fair Housing.
Conditions That May Qualify
Plus other mental health conditions where an ESA provides meaningful emotional support.
Texas ESA Housing Rights
- Texas landlords must review ESA accommodation requests under FHA rules.
- No breed or weight restrictions for approved assistance animals.
- Housing providers may verify the letter but cannot ask for full medical records.
- You can file a Fair Housing complaint with HUD if rights are denied.
Common Questions About ESA Rights
What is an ESA letter?
An ESA letter is a document from a licensed mental health professional stating that you have a mental health condition and that an emotional support animal is part of your treatment plan.
Can my landlord charge pet rent for an ESA?
No. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords generally cannot charge pet deposits, pet rent, or pet fees for approved ESAs because they are considered assistance animals, not pets.
Are breed restrictions allowed for ESAs?
No. Housing providers cannot apply breed, size, or weight restrictions to emotional support animals. The standard "no pets" policies do not apply to ESAs.
What can my landlord legally ask for?
Landlords can request documentation from a licensed provider confirming your disability and the need for an ESA. They cannot ask for your diagnosis, medical records, or require online registrations.
How long is an ESA letter valid?
While there is no legal expiration, most housing providers prefer documentation within the last 12 months. Many people renew their ESA letter annually.
What if my landlord denies my ESA?
If you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) or the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division.
Ready to Get Your ESA Letter?
Start your free evaluation with a Texas-licensed mental health professional today.
