Colorado Landlords and Medical Proof for Disability Accommodations

Many Colorado renters need their homes to be safe and accessible, including reasonable modifications or accommodations for disabilities. You might wonder if your landlord can ask for medical records or proof before providing requested accommodations. This article explains what Colorado and federal law say, which forms to use, and how to protect your rights while keeping your health information private.

Understanding Disability Accommodations

Both the federal Fair Housing Act and Colorado law protect renters with disabilities. If you have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, you are entitled to ask your landlord for a reasonable accommodation. This might include:

• Allowing a service animal in a no-pets property
• Installing grab bars or ramps
• Reserved accessible parking

Landlords must consider these requests unless it causes them undue financial/administrative hardship or a fundamental change to the building.

Can a Landlord Ask for Medical Proof?

In Colorado, a landlord may require some documentation to verify that:

• The renter meets the definition of disability
• The requested accommodation is related to that disability

However, landlords cannot ask for a full medical record or details about the nature or severity of your condition. Documentation may include:

• A letter from a licensed health care provider (like your doctor, therapist, or counselor)
• Official form or note stating your need for a specific accommodation

Details about your diagnosis are not required—only confirmation of your disability status and the necessity of the accommodation.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

Reasonable Accommodation Request

• Form Name: Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) Reasonable Accommodation Sample Letter
• When & How Used: Renters use this template when asking their landlord for a disability-related accommodation, such as permission for a service animal or installation of accessibility devices.
• Download from the Colorado Civil Rights Division

For supporting documentation (if your landlord requests verification), you or your health provider can use a simple letter stating your disability and why the accommodation is necessary. You are not required to submit a formal state form, but documentation must come from a credible source (health provider or case worker).

Complaint to Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD)

• Form Name: CCRD Housing Discrimination Complaint Intake Packet
• When & How Used: Used if your landlord denies or ignores a valid accommodation request. Fill out and submit the packet to open a case with the CCRD.
• Complaint Intake Packet and instructions

The Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) investigates discrimination claims and offers resources to renters and housing providers.

Relevant Legislation and Housing Tribunal

Colorado renters are protected under the Colorado Fair Housing Act (C.R.S. § 24-34-501 et seq.) and the federal Fair Housing Act.
The Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) is the state agency that enforces these rights. You can learn more or file a complaint at the official CCRD website.

Action Steps if a Landlord Requests Medical Proof

• If a landlord asks for verification, provide a letter from your health provider stating you have a disability and need a specific accommodation.
• Do not provide full medical records or private diagnosis information.
• If the landlord asks for more information than the law allows, refer to the Colorado Civil Rights Division or seek guidance.
• If your request is denied or ignored, file a complaint with the CCRD.

Frequently Asked Questions: Disability Accommodations in Colorado Rentals

1. Can my landlord ask for a specific diagnosis?
   No. Landlords may verify disability and the need for an accommodation, but they cannot require disclosure of your diagnosis or medical history.
2. Do I need to use a special form to request an accommodation?
   No state-mandated form is required—a written request is enough. However, using the CCRD's suggested sample letter can help.
3. What if my landlord refuses my request or asks for too much information?
   You may contact the Colorado Civil Rights Division and file a complaint using their official intake form.
4. Is my doctor required to fill out a particular state form?
   No. A simple letter from your doctor or care provider verifying your need is sufficient under Colorado law.
5. How long does my landlord have to respond to my accommodation request?
   While the law does not set a firm deadline, landlords should respond promptly, usually within a reasonable period (often 10-14 days).

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Colorado landlords can request basic verification, not detailed medical records or diagnoses.
• Your request for an accommodation should be in writing and include only what's necessary.
• If denied or your privacy is not respected, the CCRD offers complaint support and investigation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) – File housing complaints or get information on your rights
• Colorado Department of Labor and Employment – General tenant rights guidance
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Fair housing resources and complaint process

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1. Colorado Fair Housing Act (C.R.S. § 24-34-501 et seq.)
2. Federal Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968)
3. CCRD Housing Discrimination Complaint Process and Forms
4. Colorado Civil Rights Division Official Site

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