Alabama Landlords: Medical Proof Rules for Disability Accommodations

If you rent in Alabama and have a disability, you may need certain accommodations, such as a service animal, parking modifications, or physical adjustments to your living space. But can your landlord legally ask for medical proof before granting these accommodations? Here, we break down your rights, what information landlords can (and cannot) ask for, and the official forms involved—all under Alabama and federal law.

Understanding Disability Accommodation Requests

Under federal laws like the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), renters with disabilities have the right to ask for reasonable accommodations. In Alabama, these protections also apply.

• Reasonable accommodations can include things like service animals, ramps, or reserved parking.
• Your landlord can ask for information to verify your disability if it is not obvious, but they cannot ask for your entire medical history or invasive details.
• They must keep all information about your disability confidential.

When Can a Landlord Ask for Medical Proof in Alabama?

Landlords in Alabama are allowed to request limited documentation if your disability or need for accommodation isn’t obvious. This is meant to confirm:

• That you (or someone in your household) has a disability as defined by law
• That the requested accommodation is necessary due to that disability

They cannot demand a specific diagnosis or access to your full medical records. Documentation usually comes from a healthcare provider, therapist, or other qualified professional.

What Documents Can Landlords Request?

• A letter from a healthcare provider explaining you have a disability and need the accommodation (no diagnosis details needed)
• Forms like a "Reasonable Accommodation Request" completed by you and your provider

Tip: Always keep copies of communications with your landlord, and only share the minimum medical information necessary.

Relevant Official Forms for Alabama Renters

• Reasonable Accommodation Request Form:
  • Form Name: Reasonable Accommodation Request
  • When to Use: Use this form to formally request a change or exception (e.g., for a service animal or accessible parking). Example: If you need a grab bar installed, fill in this form with your provider to confirm the link between your disability and the accommodation.
  • Download sample form and guidance from HUD
• Optional: Verification of Disability Form (Not formally required, but sometimes used by landlords)
  • When to Use: If your landlord offers a form, have your provider confirm your disability and need, but do not provide a full diagnosis.
  • HUD Verification Guidance

Legal Protections and Who Handles Complaints

Alabama renters are protected by state and federal law. The main law for residential tenancies is the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Fair housing complaints about disability discrimination are handled by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, Fair Housing Division.

• If your landlord refuses your request or asks for too much medical detail, you can file a complaint through HUD using the official complaint form.
• The Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution can help with tenant-landlord disputes.
  Visit the Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution

Action Steps for Alabama Renters: How to Request an Accommodation

Here’s how you can formally request a reasonable accommodation if you need one:

• Write a dated, signed letter (or fill out the accommodation request form).
• Have a qualified professional verify your need (they do not need to share diagnosis details).
• Submit your request to your landlord and keep copies for your records.
• If denied, file a complaint with HUD or the Alabama Fair Housing Division.

FAQs: Disability Accommodations and Medical Proof in Alabama

1. Can my landlord ask for my full medical records?
   No. Landlords can only ask for enough information to confirm your disability and need for accommodation, not your full records.
2. What if my disability is obvious (such as mobility impairment)?
   If your disability and need are clear, your landlord should not ask for further documentation.
3. What do I do if my landlord denies my accommodation request?
   If you believe the denial is unfair or discriminatory, file a complaint through the HUD complaint portal or Alabama’s Fair Housing Division.
4. Is there a specific state form for accommodation requests in Alabama?
   No, but you may use a general Reasonable Accommodation Request form from HUD or create your own written request.
5. Are service animals included in these rules?
   Yes, service and emotional support animals are covered. Landlords can request a note from a provider, but may not require registration or training proof.

Conclusion: Key Points for Renters

• Alabama landlords may ask for limited proof if your disability is not obvious—but cannot demand medical details.
• Use a written request or official form, supported by a provider’s note (without diagnosis details).
• If denied or harassed, file a complaint with HUD or the Alabama Fair Housing Office for help.

Always know your rights and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from official agencies.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Portal
• Alabama Fair Housing Division
• Alabama Legal Help – Free legal resources
• Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution
• Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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1. Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 35, Chapter 9A)
2. Fair Housing Act (federal)
3. HUD Reasonable Accommodation Guidance
4. HUD Verification Guidance
5. Americans with Disabilities Act: Housing

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