What Is an ESA Housing Letter and Why You Might Need One in New Jersey

What Is an ESA Housing Letter and Why You Might Need One in New Jersey

If you live in New Jersey and rely on the emotional support of an animal, navigating housing laws can feel overwhelming—especially when faced with strict pet policies or unexpected pet fees. That’s where an ESA housing letter comes in.

What Is an ESA Housing Letter?

An ESA (Emotional Support Animal) housing letter is a formal document issued by a licensed mental health professional that states your need for an emotional support animal as part of your mental health treatment plan. It’s a vital tool that allows tenants to live with their support animals—even in housing with “no pets” policies.

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. That means, with a valid ESA letter, you cannot be charged pet fees or denied housing just because you have an emotional support animal.

Why You Might Need One in New Jersey

New Jersey is home to a wide range of housing—from bustling urban apartments in Jersey City to quiet communities in the Pine Barrens. But across the board, many properties enforce strict pet restrictions.

If you experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other qualifying mental health challenges, an emotional support animal can provide essential relief. An ESA housing letter legally supports your right to live with your animal—regardless of pet rules.

For tenants in New Jersey:

• You cannot be evicted or denied housing based solely on your ESA

• You do not have to pay pet deposits or monthly pet rent

• Your ESA does not count toward breed or size restrictions

However, the letter must be legitimate and written by a licensed professional practicing in your state.

How PetCerts.com Supports Your Rights

At PetCerts.com, we specialize in helping individuals who require the assistance of a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)—which, unlike ESAs, are trained to perform specific tasks that directly support a person’s mental health condition.

While ESA letters are powerful in the housing world, PSD letters go a step further, offering coverage for both housing and travel. Our PSD Housing and Travel Letters are designed for those whose mental health conditions rise to a level where a trained dog is necessary for daily functioning.

If you qualify, a PSD can provide you with:

• Legal protection under the FHA for housing, similar to an ESA

• Coverage under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) for airline travel

• Broader access rights in public settings

Whether you’re renting in Hoboken, moving to Newark, or flying out of EWR with your service dog, a PSD letter can provide the access and peace of mind you need.

Is a PSD Right for You?

Many people who originally considered an ESA discover that a Psychiatric Service Dog is a better fit—not just for legal protection, but for the real-world support these trained dogs provide.

At PetCerts.com, we make the process easy, secure, and fully compliant with current laws. You’ll be guided every step of the way to ensure that your housing and travel rights are fully supported.

In New Jersey, tenant protections for emotional support animals are strong—but only when backed by proper documentation. Whether you’re seeking support through an ESA or discovering the added benefits of a Psychiatric Service Dog, PetCerts.com is here to ensure your rights are protected.

Your animal is more than a pet. It’s your partner in mental wellness—and we’re here to help make sure you can live and travel freely, without barriers.