Landlords and Medical Proof for Disability Accommodations in Delaware

Renters in Delaware who have a disability have special protections under both state and federal law. If you request a reasonable accommodation—for example, a service animal, or a modification like grab bars—your landlord may ask for some medical information. But what exactly can be asked for, and what can't?

Your Rights to Accommodation in Delaware

Delaware landlords are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations and modifications if you have a disability. This rule comes from both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Delaware Fair Housing Act. Reasonable accommodations might include:

• Allowing an assistance animal even if they have a no-pets policy
• Permitting physical changes to the rental unit (like ramps or wider doorways)
• Offering extra time for certain rental tasks if connected to your disability

These laws are designed to give people with disabilities equal access to housing—a right protected across all of Delaware.

Can Your Landlord Ask for Medical Documentation?

Your landlord can request documentation to confirm that you have a disability and need an accommodation, but they have to follow strict rules:

• They can't require you to disclose your specific diagnosis or detailed medical history.
• They can only ask for information showing that you have a qualifying disability and that the requested accommodation is related to your disability.
• If your disability and need are obvious (like someone who is blind needing a guide dog), no documentation is needed.

This process helps protect your privacy while making sure you get the accommodations you need.

What Kind of Proof Can Be Requested?

Proof can take the form of a letter from a licensed health care professional, social worker, or service provider, but again—it only needs to confirm:

• You have a disability (not what the disability is).
• Your need for the specific accommodation requested.

Landlords can't legally require you to complete a specific form; any documentation that meets the above should be accepted.

Official Forms and Practical Steps

Delaware does not have a state-mandated form for requesting a reasonable accommodation. However, renters can provide a written request with accompanying medical documentation (such as a brief letter from your doctor or therapist).

• Form: Delaware Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter (no official form number)
  Use Case: A tenant who needs grab bars in the shower due to limited mobility writes a simple letter to the landlord requesting this change and attaches a note from their healthcare provider confirming the necessity.
  Official Reference: See Delaware Division of Human Relations – Housing Discrimination Resources

You can file a complaint if your landlord denies a reasonable accommodation. The Delaware Division of Human Relations is the official body responsible for handling these issues.

Relevant Legislation and Agencies

• Delaware Fair Housing Act
• Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code
• Delaware Division of Human Relations – Fair Housing

For disputes about rental housing and disability rights, the Delaware Division of Human Relations investigates and resolves complaints for renters across the state.

FAQ: Renters’ Questions About Disability Accommodation Proof

1. Can my Delaware landlord ask for my full medical records?
   No. Landlords can only ask for confirmation that you have a qualifying disability and that you need the accommodation. They cannot require details about your diagnosis or full medical records.
2. Do I have to use a specific form to request an accommodation?
   No. You may submit your request in writing, such as a letter or email, along with supporting documentation. Delaware does not require a specific official form.
3. Who decides if my accommodation request is reasonable?
   Your landlord must consider the request, but if you believe it is unreasonably denied, you can file a complaint with the Delaware Division of Human Relations.
4. What if my disability is obvious?
   If your disability and need for the accommodation are clearly visible, your landlord should not ask for documentation.
5. Where do I go if my landlord refuses to accommodate?
   You can contact the Delaware Division of Human Relations to file a fair housing complaint.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• Landlords can ask for basic proof of disability when the need and accommodation are not obvious.
• You do not have to share detailed medical information—only enough to show the need for the accommodation.
• If your request is unreasonably denied, you can seek help from state agencies.

By understanding your rights, you can advocate for the support you need in your Delaware rental.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Delaware Division of Human Relations (Fair Housing Tribunal) – Main agency for fair housing complaints
• Delaware Attorney General – Fair Housing Assistance Program
• Delaware Aging & Disability Resource Center
• HUD Delaware Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity

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1. Delaware Fair Housing Act, Title 6, Chapter 46
2. Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code, Title 25, Chapter 51
3. HUD: Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications
4. Delaware Division of Human Relations

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