Use this as your message to the property
The text below is an example of a resident’s accommodation request. It is not a clinician’s ESA letter and does not establish a diagnosis. Replace the bracketed fields with accurate information and remove any sentence that does not fit your situation.
Check the property’s preferred submission channel and retain a copy of the completed message. If a separate clinical document is appropriate, obtain it from the evaluating professional.
Sample request
Subject: Request for an animal-related housing accommodation
Hello [housing contact],
I live at, or am applying to live at, [property and unit]. I am requesting a disability-related accommodation concerning [identify the animal policy or charge]. The adjustment I am requesting is [describe the change].
The animal involved is [relevant animal details]. I am providing [describe supporting information, if applicable] for your review.
Please confirm receipt and let me know if you need additional relevant information to consider this request. My intended move-in date or other relevant deadline is [date, if applicable]. Please tell me the next step in your accommodation review process.
Thank you,
[your name]
[preferred contact method]
Review before sending
Make sure the requested adjustment is clear and the attachment description matches what you are actually sending. Do not include someone else’s clinical findings or disclose unrelated treatment information merely to make the request longer.
Save proof of delivery and any response. If the property asks for clarification, address the particular question with appropriate professional help. A well-written message starts a review; it is not a guarantee of approval. Use the refusal guide if a disputed decision follows.
Sources & reading notes
Sources consulted September 8, 2026. Source addresses are provided as text for reference. General information does not replace individual medical or legal advice.
HUD — Enforcement Guidance, May 22, 2026, pages 1–6https://www.hud.gov/sites/default/files/hudclips/documents/AS-Trainor-Enforcement-Guidance-Assessing-Requests-for-the-use-of-an-animal-as-a-reasonable-accommodation-under-the-fair-housing-act.pdf