Kentucky Renters: Medical Proof for Disability Accommodations

If you’re a renter in Kentucky and need changes to your rental due to a disability, you may be concerned about whether your landlord can require you to provide medical proof. Understanding these rules can help make your home more accessible and help you assert your rights with confidence.

Your Right to Reasonable Accommodations in Kentucky

Both federal and state laws protect renters with disabilities. The federal Fair Housing Act and Kentucky’s Fair Housing Law make it illegal for landlords to refuse reasonable accommodations to qualified tenants. Reasonable accommodations can include allowing service animals, adding grab bars, or making other adjustments to policies.

What is Considered Medical Proof?

"Medical proof" usually refers to documentation from a qualified professional (like a doctor, nurse, therapist, or counselor) confirming that you have a disability and need an accommodation.

Can Landlords Ask for Medical Proof in Kentucky?

Yes, landlords in Kentucky can require some form of documentation, but there are limits. They may only ask for enough information to determine that:

• You have a disability as defined by law (but not the specific diagnosis or details)
• You have a disability-related need for the accommodation

They cannot demand your full medical records or details about your condition.

How to Provide Acceptable Documentation

Acceptable documentation often includes a letter from a healthcare provider, therapist, or medical professional. The letter should confirm:

• The provider is familiar with your condition
• You have a disability (without specific diagnosis)
• You need the requested accommodation for equal housing opportunity

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Though Kentucky does not have a specialized state form for requesting disability accommodations, you may use a written letter or email. You can find helpful templates and guidance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on requesting reasonable accommodations.

• HUD Disability Accommodation Request Example Letter
  Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter (DOC)
  When to use: If you need a service animal or other disability-related modification, fill out this letter with your details and send it to your landlord to formally request the accommodation.

How to File a Complaint if Your Request is Denied

If your landlord refuses your reasonable accommodation, you can file a fair housing complaint:

• With the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights
• Or directly with HUD

The Kentucky Commission on Human Rights investigates housing discrimination under the state’s Fair Housing Law (KRS Chapter 344).

Understanding Key Terms

• Reasonable Accommodation: A change in rules or policies that allows a person with a disability equal use of the rental property
• Disability: A physical or mental impairment substantially limiting one or more major life activities

Enforcement and Where to Get Help

Disputes about accommodations are handled by the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights. This is the body responsible for handling complaints about rental discrimination in the state.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

1. Can my landlord require me to share my diagnosis or full medical records?
   No. Landlords may only ask for proof of disability and need for the accommodation, not for specific diagnoses or private medical records.
2. Who can write the documentation for my accommodation?
   A licensed healthcare provider familiar with your condition, such as your doctor, nurse, psychiatrist, or counselor.
3. What if my landlord refuses my request for accommodation?
   You can file a complaint with the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights or with HUD.
4. Is there an official Kentucky form for disability accommodation requests?
   There’s no required Kentucky state form. You may use a written letter or one of HUD’s sample templates to make a request.
5. Are service animals covered by these rules?
   Yes. Service animals are a common and protected accommodation under both Kentucky and federal law.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Kentucky may request limited documentation for disability accommodations, but not specific diagnoses.
• You have the right to request reasonable changes to your home—written letters from health providers are usually sufficient.
• Support is available from the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights and HUD for renters facing discrimination.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights — File a complaint or get tenant help at (502) 595-4024
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Housing
• Review Kentucky’s tenant protections in KRS Chapter 344 - Kentucky Fair Housing Law

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1. Kentucky Fair Housing Law: KRS Chapter 344
2. HUD Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter
3. Kentucky Commission on Human Rights
4. Federal Fair Housing Act

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