NC H551

Prohibits counties and cities from adopting ordinances that prevent landlords from refusing to rent to tenants whose lawful income includes federal housing assistance program funding.

Creates new nondiscrimination protections for tenants and applicants with disabilities who use service animals or support animals, prohibiting landlords from terminating tenancies, refusing rentals, or imposing different terms based on disability status or animal use.

Allows landlords to recover reasonable attorneys' fees up to 15% of amount owed in summary ejectment proceedings, including small claims hearings and appeals.

Exempts service animals and support animals from pet deposit fees and allows landlords to require written verification of disability-related need from health service professionals.

Limits enforcement of HOA declaration amendments prohibiting or restricting rental of units or lots to owners who acquire title after the amendment takes effect.