Can my landlord ask for my diagnosis or medical records?

No, your landlord cannot demand your diagnosis or detailed medical records. They may only ask for basic verification that you have a disability and need the requested accommodation.

Do I have to disclose my exact disability when asking for an accommodation?

No, you are not required to share your specific diagnosis. A brief letter from a qualified person stating you have a disability and need the accommodation is enough.

What if my landlord refuses to grant my accommodation request in Nebraska?

You can file a complaint with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission if you believe your accommodation request has been unfairly denied.

Does my landlord have a deadline to respond to an accommodation request?

While there is no specific statutory deadline, landlords must respond promptly to avoid violating fair housing laws. Unreasonable delays can be considered discrimination.

Are service animals and emotional support animals covered under disability accommodations?

Yes, in most cases, reasonable accommodation rules include service animals and emotional support animals—even if there is a “no pets” policy.

Nebraska Landlord Disability Accommodation: Medical Proof Rules

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Nebraska published: June 21, 2025

Renters with disabilities in Nebraska have important rights when requesting accommodations in their homes. You might wonder how much information your landlord can ask for if you need something like a service animal or a physical modification. Understanding these rules helps ensure your housing remains accessible—and protects your privacy.

Your Rights to Reasonable Accommodation in Nebraska

Both federal and Nebraska state law protect renters with disabilities. Under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Nebraska Fair Housing Act, landlords generally must make reasonable accommodations or allow modifications so disabled tenants can fully enjoy their homes.^[1]

If you or a member of your household has a physical or mental disability, you can request changes—like grab bars in the bathroom, ramp installation, or permission for a service animal—even if there’s a “no pets” rule.
The landlord cannot refuse an accommodation that is reasonable and needed because of a disability unless it imposes an undue financial/administrative burden or fundamentally alters the housing.

Most requests are handled by the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission, which investigates fair housing complaints and enforces state laws.

Can a Landlord Ask for Medical Proof in Nebraska?

Your landlord can request verification that you have a qualifying disability and that the accommodation you’re requesting is related to that disability. However, there are important limits:

Landlords cannot require specific medical records, a diagnosis, or detailed medical history.
A landlord may ask for a brief verification from a health professional, service provider, or third party who knows about your disability needs.
If the disability is obvious or the need for accommodation is clear (e.g., a wheelchair user requesting a ramp), further proof is usually not required.
If the disability is not obvious (such as a mental health condition), a landlord may ask for information confirming both the disability and the needed accommodation. This should be a simple letter or document stating that you have a disability (without naming it) and that the requested accommodation is necessary.

These requirements are detailed by both federal guidance and Nebraska fair housing law. To learn more, visit the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission Fair Housing page.

How to Request an Accommodation: Nebraska Forms and Procedure

There is no official state-issued accommodation request form, but you should make your request in writing to your landlord. You do not need to use a specific form, but your letter should:

Clearly state you are requesting an accommodation for a disability.
Describe the accommodation you need.
Include a brief statement or letter from your provider, if necessary.

If your landlord denies your request or demands excessive medical information, you can file a complaint with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC).

Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission Fair Housing Complaint Form

Form Name: NEOC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
When to Use: If your landlord denies your reasonable accommodation request or retaliates against you for making one.
Official Link: NEOC Online Complaint Portal
How It Works: Complete the online form, include a description of the issue, and submit any supporting documentation (such as your request letter or your provider's statement). The NEOC will review your case and may investigate or mediate with your landlord.

For more details, visit the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission website.

Relevant Nebraska Law and Tribunal

The body responsible for residential tenancy disputes involving discrimination or housing access is the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC).
Key legislation is the Nebraska Fair Housing Act and federal Fair Housing Act: Disability Rights Overview.

If your landlord asks for too much medical detail, you have the right to decline providing a diagnosis or personal medical records. Only basic verification is needed.

FAQ: Disability Accommodation and Medical Proof in Nebraska

Can my landlord ask for my diagnosis or medical records?
No, your landlord cannot demand your diagnosis or detailed medical records. They may only ask for basic verification that you have a disability and need the requested accommodation.
Do I have to disclose my exact disability when asking for an accommodation?
No, you are not required to share your specific diagnosis. A brief letter from a qualified person stating you have a disability and need the accommodation is enough.
What if my landlord refuses to grant my accommodation request in Nebraska?
You can file a complaint with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission if you believe your accommodation request has been unfairly denied.
Does my landlord have a deadline to respond to an accommodation request?
While there is no specific statutory deadline, landlords must respond promptly to avoid violating fair housing laws. Unreasonable delays can be considered discrimination.
Are service animals and emotional support animals covered under disability accommodations?
Yes, in most cases, reasonable accommodation rules include service animals and emotional support animals—even if there is a “no pets” policy.

Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters

Landlords may ask for basic disability verification when accommodations are requested, but not for a diagnosis or medical records.
All accommodation requests should be made in writing, and you can file a formal complaint if you believe your rights have been violated.
The Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission is your official resource for help and enforcement.

Knowing your rights can help you meet your needs and avoid unnecessary disclosure of sensitive information.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission Fair Housing Complaint Form – To start a complaint if you experience accommodation discrimination.
Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission – Guidance on rights and the complaint process.
HUD Disability Fair Housing Overview – Federal guidance on disability and rental housing.