Can Michigan Landlords Require Medical Proof for Disability Accommodations?

If you are a renter in Michigan who needs a disability-related accommodation—like an emotional support animal or a reserved parking space—you may be wondering if your landlord can legally require medical proof. Understanding Michigan's laws helps you protect your privacy while ensuring fair access to your home.

Disability Accommodations and Your Rights as a Michigan Renter

Federal and state laws protect renters with disabilities from discrimination. These laws require landlords to make reasonable accommodations—changes to rules or policies that enable you to use and enjoy your housing on an equal basis.

• Federal Law: The Fair Housing Act (FHA) bars disability discrimination and sets standards for reasonable accommodations nationwide.
• Michigan Law: The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act and the Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act extend similar protections in Michigan.

A disability accommodation might be a wheelchair ramp, a service or emotional support animal, or a modified lease term due to a health condition.

When Can a Michigan Landlord Ask for Medical Proof?

Landlords can request reliable documentation if your disability or needed accommodation is not obvious. This documentation must verify two things:

• You have a disability as defined by law
• The requested accommodation is related to your disability

However, landlords cannot:

• Ask for a specific diagnosis or detailed records
• Request more documentation than is reasonable to verify your need
• Refuse your request solely because you did not provide their preferred form or template

What Kind of Medical Proof is Acceptable?

Documentation can come from a licensed healthcare, mental health, or social services provider. Examples include:

• A basic letter from your doctor or licensed mental health professional (on official letterhead)
• Official forms provided by a Michigan or federal agency

It is usually not necessary to disclose your diagnosis—only that you have a qualifying disability and need the accommodation. Landlords should keep any documentation you provide confidential.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

While Michigan does not have a mandatory statewide form for requesting an accommodation, you can create a simple written request or use a template offered by state or federal resources.

• Reasonable Accommodation Request (Sample Letter)
  Michigan Department of Civil Rights Reasonable Accommodation Letter Guide
  Use this when you need a landlord to change a rule (like a “no pets” policy for an emotional support animal).
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Reasonable Accommodation Information
  HUD Guidance on Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications
  Explains how to write a proper request and what documentation is appropriate.

If your landlord denies your request or requires more medical proof than the law allows, you can file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or the federal HUD office.

How to Submit a Reasonable Accommodation Request in Michigan

Follow these steps if you need an accommodation:

• Write a request letter stating you have a disability and the accommodation you need
• Provide verification from a healthcare provider only if your need or disability is not obvious
• Send your request and documentation to your landlord by mail, email, or certified mail (always keep copies for your own records)
• If denied or if you experience retaliation, contact the Michigan Department of Civil Rights for help

Your landlord can ask for basic documentation—but not your diagnosis or private medical details. If you feel your information request goes too far, you have the right to push back or seek assistance.

Dispute Resolution: Where to Get Help

If you’re unable to resolve an accommodation issue with your landlord, you may file a complaint through the Michigan Department of Civil Rights Fair Housing Complaint portal or contact HUD. Official disputes are handled by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, which acts as the main tribunal for housing discrimination cases in the state.

FAQ: Proof and Disability Accommodations in Michigan Rentals

1. Can my landlord require me to use their specific form?
   No. Michigan law does not require renters to use a landlord’s form. You can provide documentation in any written format, as long as it verifies your need for the accommodation.
2. What can my landlord legally ask my doctor?
   Only basic information confirming you have a disability and need the accommodation. They cannot ask about specific diagnoses or detailed health facts.
3. Is a letter from a therapist considered valid proof?
   Yes. Letters from licensed mental health professionals—including therapists—are acceptable verification under Michigan and federal law.
4. What if my landlord refuses my request even after I provide proof?
   You may file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, which investigates housing discrimination claims.
5. Does Michigan have a standard government form for these requests?
   No. There is no standard state form, but you can use sample letters from the Michigan Department of Civil Rights or federal HUD forms for reference.

Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Landlords may request basic verification for disability accommodations, but not detailed medical information.
• Provide a simple letter from a qualified professional if your disability or need isn’t obvious.
• If your request is denied or unreasonably challenged, contact the Michigan Department of Civil Rights for support.

Remember, your privacy and right to reasonable housing are protected under both Michigan and federal law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Michigan Department of Civil Rights: Main agency for filing discrimination complaints and information on tenant rights.
• Michigan Fair Housing: Additional resources and complaint forms for Fair Housing issues.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Federal fair housing resources and complaint portal.

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1. Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. § 3601 et seq.)
2. Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act
3. Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act
4. Sample Michigan Reasonable Accommodation Letter
5. HUD: Reasonable Accommodations Guidance

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