As a property manager or landlord, it's important to keep updated on the latest legal developments that may impact your rental properties. In this blog, we'll discuss two recent bills that have been passed, affecting housing discrimination in relation to service dogs and introducing new pet protection measures.
HB 608/SB 535 – Housing Discrimination - Service Dogs
Effective on October 1, 2023, Maryland has implemented a significant change aimed at preventing housing discrimination against tenants who rely on service dogs. Under HB 608/SB 535, tenants are now allowed to retain their service dogs in the rental unit even after these dogs have retired from service. This change is essential as it ensures that tenants won't face eviction or additional pet-related fees upon their service dog's retirement.
HB 102/SB 279 – Pet Protections
Effective as of June 1, 2023, Maryland has also introduced new regulations to protect tenants who have pets. Under HB 102/SB 279, landlords are now required to include a link to a fact sheet on the Department of Agriculture's website in leases if they are aware that a tenant possesses a pet. This requirement comes into effect on November 1, 2023.
You can find a link to the fact sheet on the Department of Agriculture’s website here.
The Fair Housing Act
The Fair Housing Act requires landlords to provide “reasonable accommodation” to anyone with an emotional support animal or service animal and does not allow additional fees or security deposits to be charged to the tenant. Maryland law does not limit the type of animal that can be considered a service animal and it does not limit breed or size.
The act states that landlords are obligated by law to provide a “reasonable accommodation” to anyone with an ESA and the proper documentation. It is important to note that if the animal causes any damage to the property, the tenant is still responsible for covering the costs.
In light of these recent legislative changes, landlords and property managers must adapt to evolving legal landscapes to protect themselves from lawsuits for discriminatory practices.
**The information provided on this blog does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.
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