Why New Hampshire Landlords Can’t Say No to Your ESA (Legally Speaking)

Why New Hampshire Landlords Can’t Say No to Your ESA (Legally Speaking)

If you're living in New Hampshire with an emotional support animal (ESA), you have more power than you might think when it comes to housing. While landlords can set pet policies, when it comes to ESAs, the rules are different — and legally binding. Understanding your rights can save you a lot of stress, especially if you're facing pushback about your animal companion.

The Law Is on Your Side

Federal laws like the Fair Housing Act (FHA) protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination — and that includes being able to live with an emotional support animal, even in a no-pet building. That means if your ESA is part of your mental health treatment plan, your landlord generally cannot deny you housing because of your animal.

The only requirement? You must be able to show that your ESA is recommended by a licensed mental health professional — and that's where the right documentation matters.

What Landlords Can’t Do

In New Hampshire (and across the U.S.), landlords cannot:

• Charge pet fees or deposits for ESAs

• Ask for details about your specific diagnosis

• Refuse your ESA just because of its breed, size, or species (with very limited exceptions)

• Demand that your animal has specific training (unlike service dogs)

Once you provide a valid ESA letter from a licensed professional, your landlord must provide reasonable accommodation — meaning they have to allow your ESA, even in a no-pets policy building.

But What Can They Ask For?

Landlords are allowed to ask for documentation that confirms two things:

1. You have a mental or emotional disability recognized under the law.

2. Your ESA helps alleviate symptoms of that disability.

This documentation must come from a licensed professional — and that’s where PetCerts.com comes in.

How PetCerts.com Helps You Get What You’re Entitled To

At PetCerts.com, we specialize in helping you get the official ESA letters that meet federal and New Hampshire-specific guidelines. Our letters come directly from licensed mental health professionals who understand the laws around emotional support animals — so you’re not left wondering if your paperwork will stand up to a landlord’s scrutiny.

Whether you're renting a downtown Manchester apartment or a quiet cabin up in the Whites, your rights remain the same: if your ESA is essential to your emotional well-being, you have a legal path to keep them by your side.

New Hampshire landlords don’t have to like your ESA — but legally, they can’t say no if you have the right documentation. And that’s where your peace of mind begins. With the right letter, your housing rights aren’t up for debate.

If you’re ready to protect your ESA rights the legal way, PetCerts.com is here to help.