NC S553

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

Creates new regulations for service animals and support animals in residential tenancies, including definitions, nondiscrimination protections, and liability provisions for misrepresentation; requires landlords to accept verification from health service professionals for non-observable disabilities.

Expands authorized litigation costs in summary ejectment proceedings to include reasonable attorneys' fees for small claims hearings (up to 15% of amount owed or monthly rent) and all actual reasonable attorneys' fees for appeals of summary ejectment matters.

Exempts service animals and support animals from pet deposit requirements under G.S. 42-53.

Makes HOA declaration amendments under Chapters 47C and 47F applicable only to unit/lot owners who convey or transfer their property after amendments take effect, with existing owners grandfathered under prior rules.