*IF* he qualifies as a Real Estate Professional (which includes that he Materially Participates in the rental activity), he would qualify for the Real Estate Professional exception.  There is a check-box on the Federal Info Worksheet (the first page where you enter the name, address, Social Security Number, etc. of the taxpayer) for that.

https://www.irs.gov/publications/p925#en_US_2018_publink1000104591

However, you may want to verify that he meets the requirements, and perhaps even have him sign a statement that he meets the requirements of a Real Estate Professional.