Free ESA Request Letter Template for Housing
If you rely on an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) for your mental or emotional health, you are entitled to certain legal housing rights under federal and California law. One key step in securing those rights is submitting an ESA request letter to your landlord. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know—plus a free ESA request letter template you can copy and customize today.
📝 Need a valid ESA letter? Get evaluated online through CertifyESA to support your housing request.
What Is an ESA Request Letter?
An ESA request letter is a formal notice you send to your landlord asking for a “reasonable accommodation” to live with your Emotional Support Animal. This is your opportunity to explain your rights under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), and to let your landlord know that you have documentation from a licensed mental health professional.
This letter should be polite, professional, and include your ESA letter as an attachment.
When to Send the ESA Request Letter
You should send your ESA accommodation request when:
- You’re moving into a new rental with a no-pet policy
- You’re adding an ESA to your current household
- Your landlord requires documentation for lease renewal
📧 Tip: Email your request for faster response and include a copy of your ESA letter in PDF format.
What to Include in Your ESA Request Letter
- Your name and address
Free ESA Housing Request Letter Template
Below is a simple, customizable ESA request letter you can use:
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date] [Landlord’s Full Name] [Landlord’s Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] Subject: Request for Reasonable Accommodation for Emotional Support Animal Dear [Landlord's Name], I am writing to formally request a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) to allow me to live with my Emotional Support Animal at [Property Address or Unit Number]. I have a mental health disability recognized under applicable federal and state laws, and my Emotional Support Animal provides necessary support that helps alleviate symptoms related to my condition. Enclosed with this letter is documentation from a licensed mental health professional supporting this need. I kindly request that any pet-related policies, restrictions, or fees be waived in accordance with housing law, as this is not a pet but a medically recommended support animal. Please let me know if you need any additional information. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your response within a reasonable time frame. Sincerely, [Your Full Name]
📌 Remember: Always attach your ESA letter from a licensed therapist when you submit this request. Without that, your landlord is not legally required to accommodate your ESA.
Need Help Getting a Legitimate ESA Letter?
In order for your request to be approved, you must provide a valid ESA letter issued by a licensed therapist practicing in your state. The letter should be on official letterhead, include their license number, and confirm your need for an ESA.
🔒 Get your legal ESA letter through CertifyESA—fast, affordable, and fully online.
Final Tips for ESA Housing Requests
- Stay polite and professional in your communication
- Keep a copy of your letter and ESA documentation
- Submit your request in writing (email is best)
- Respond promptly to any follow-up from your landlord
📩 Don’t wait—use the template above and protect your housing rights today.
✅ Need the official ESA letter to go with it? Start your evaluation now with CertifyESA.
