A renter in Bristol was refused accommodation because they have a medical assistance dog. The case highlights ongoing discrimination in the private rental sector against disabled people with legitimate assistance dogs.
What the law says
Under the Equality Act 2010, assistance dogs are recognised as working animals and landlords must make reasonable adjustments for disabled tenants. Refusing a tenancy solely because someone has an assistance dog constitutes disability discrimination. Private landlords have the same legal obligations as other service providers to accommodate assistance dogs.
If this happens to you
If refused housing because of your assistance dog, gather evidence of the refusal and contact the Equality and Human Rights Commission or seek advice from Shelter or Citizens Advice. Consider making a formal complaint to your local council's housing department and keep records of all communications.
Source: Bristol Live
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