Your Rights Under the Fair Housing Act: PSD Protections in Georgia

Your Rights Under the Fair Housing Act: PSD Protections in Georgia

Living with a mental health condition shouldn’t mean facing unfair housing obstacles—especially when your psychiatric service dog (PSD) is an essential part of your daily life. Fortunately, the Fair Housing Act (FHA) ensures that individuals in Georgia (and across the U.S.) are protected from discrimination when it comes to housing and the need for a PSD.

At PetCerts.com, we understand how critical your PSD is to your emotional stability and independence. That’s why we help you obtain the proper documentation needed to support your rights under federal law.

What the Fair Housing Act Says About PSDs

Under the FHA, housing providers must make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including those who rely on a PSD. This means landlords, property managers, and HOAs in Georgia cannot legally deny housing simply because you need a PSD—even if their property enforces a “no pets” policy or breed/size restrictions.

Unlike emotional support animals (ESAs), psychiatric service dogs are specially trained to perform tasks that directly assist with psychiatric disabilities. This classification places PSDs in a stronger legal position under both the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Your Rights as a Georgia Resident

Whether you're renting an apartment in Atlanta or a home in Savannah, your rights remain protected under federal law. Here’s what you need to know:

1. You Are Not Required to Pay Pet Fees or Deposits

Housing providers cannot charge additional pet rent, fees, or deposits for a PSD. These dogs are considered necessary medical assistance tools, not pets.

2. Landlords Must Accept Your PSD, Regardless of Breed or Size

Even if a housing complex has strict pet restrictions, those rules do not apply to PSDs. Landlords may not impose breed, weight, or size limitations.

3. You Are Protected from Retaliation or Denial

A landlord cannot deny you housing, evict you, or treat you unfairly because you disclosed your need for a PSD. If this happens, it may be considered illegal discrimination.

4. Proper Documentation Is Key

To secure your rights, you must provide appropriate documentation from a licensed healthcare professional confirming your need for a PSD. This document should establish that you have a mental or emotional disability and that your dog assists with that condition.

That’s where PetCerts.com steps in. We provide access to licensed professionals who can help you obtain the necessary paperwork to assert your rights with confidence and credibility.

Georgia-Specific Considerations

While federal law governs PSD protections, some Georgia housing providers may be unfamiliar with their obligations. It’s important to be informed and prepared. Keeping proper documentation on hand—especially when moving into a new unit or renewing a lease—can help avoid unnecessary disputes.

Protect Yourself. Protect Your Rights.

You deserve a safe, stable living environment with your PSD by your side. PetCerts.com is here to support that journey by helping you meet the requirements of federal housing laws—so you can live with peace of mind.

If you're ready to take the next step in securing your housing rights with a PSD in Georgia, we’re here to help make that process seamless, discreet, and fully compliant with federal law.