Medical Proof for Disability Accommodations: California Renters’ Rights

If you’re a renter in California with a disability, you have important legal rights when requesting reasonable accommodations from your landlord. This guide will help you understand whether a landlord can require medical proof, what information can be requested, and how to protect your privacy while ensuring you get the support you need.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodations in California

Landlords in California are legally required to provide reasonable accommodations to tenants with disabilities. This means making changes—such as allowing a service animal or installing a grab bar—to help you enjoy and use your home equally. These rights are protected by:

• The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
• The Unruh Civil Rights Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws protect against discrimination and guarantee your right to request accommodations for a physical or mental disability.

Can a Landlord Ask for Medical Proof?

In California, a landlord can request proof that you have a qualifying disability if your disability or the need for accommodation is not obvious. However, there are strict limits on what information can be required:

• The landlord can ask for verification that you have a disability—but not for your diagnosis or detailed medical records.
• The documentation can be from a healthcare professional, social worker, or other reliable third party.
• The landlord may ask how the accommodation will assist you, but not invasive questions about your health.

If your disability and need for accommodation are clear (for example, a wheelchair user requesting a ramp), a landlord should not demand further proof beyond what is visually apparent.

What Kind of Documentation Is Allowed?

A simple letter from a doctor or qualified professional is enough. The letter should only state that you:

• Have a disability (but not say what it is), and
• Need the requested accommodation for equal use of your housing

Landlords may not legally ask for your full medical records or specific diagnosis.

Sample Form: California Reasonable Accommodation Request

The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) provides guidance but does not mandate a specific form. However, many cities use a Reasonable Accommodation Request, which you may submit along with a simple verification letter.

• Form Name: Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (varies by local agency)
• When to use: When you need a change in policy, practice, or physical unit due to your disability, such as an assistance animal or accessible parking spot.
• How to use: Fill out the form, attach basic verification from your healthcare provider, and submit to your landlord with a written request. For Los Angeles residents, you can use the city’s official Reasonable Accommodation Request Form.

Important Legal Protections for Renters

• Your request and documents must be kept confidential.
• It is illegal for a landlord to deny your request due to lack of detailed medical records.
• You have the right to file a discrimination complaint if your landlord refuses to accommodate or asks for more information than allowed by law.

How to Request a Disability Accommodation

The process is straightforward, even if it might feel overwhelming at first. Here's a plain-steps overview:

• Write a short request to your landlord explaining the accommodation you need.
• If your disability isn't obvious, include a verification letter from a healthcare professional.
• Keep a copy of your request and any supporting documentation.
• If your request is denied or delayed, you may contact the California Civil Rights Department for assistance.

For issues that cannot be resolved, the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) (formerly DFEH) is the government agency responsible for enforcing housing discrimination laws, including requests for accommodation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord ask what my disability is?
   No, your landlord cannot require you to share your specific diagnosis or details about your medical condition. They may request only enough information to verify that you have a disability and need the accommodation.
2. What if my landlord denies my accommodation request?
   If your landlord refuses your request or asks for inappropriate information, you can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department.
3. Is there an official form I must use to request accommodation?
   No statewide form is strictly required, but your city or landlord may have a preferred form. Often, a letter with supporting verification is sufficient.
4. Who can write a verification letter?
   A healthcare professional, social worker, rehabilitation counselor, or other reliable third party can write the letter verifying your need for accommodation.
5. Do I have to pay for accommodation modifications?
   Generally, landlords must pay for reasonable accommodations. For some structural modifications, responsibility may vary. Check your lease and state law for details.

Key Takeaways

• California landlords may ask for limited verification of disability, but not your full medical history.
• You have strong legal protections when requesting housing accommodations.
• If you face discrimination, the California Civil Rights Department offers support and complaint resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• California Civil Rights Department (CRD): Complaint Process — File fair housing complaints or seek mediation.
• California Department of Housing and Community Development: Tenant Resources
• Los Angeles Reasonable Accommodation Forms
• Legal aid: LA County Tenant Assistance Center

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1. California Government Code Section 12955 (FEHA) – Housing Discrimination
2. California Civil Rights Department — Housing Complaints
3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Reasonable Accommodations
4. Los Angeles Reasonable Accommodation Forms

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