Medical Proof Requirements for Disability Accommodations in NH

If you're a renter in New Hampshire with a disability, you have rights under both state and federal law to request reasonable accommodations from your landlord. But what if your landlord asks you to provide medical proof? Understanding the process can help you confidently request what you need while protecting your privacy.

What Are Reasonable Accommodations?

A reasonable accommodation is a change or adjustment in rules, policies, or services that helps a person with a disability use and enjoy their home on equal terms with others. Examples include:

• Allowing an emotional support animal in a "no pets" building
• Assigning an accessible parking space
• Permitting a tenant to install grab bars in the bathroom

Can Landlords Ask for Medical Proof in New Hampshire?

Under both federal and New Hampshire law, landlords can ask for information to verify that you have a disability and that the requested accommodation is necessary. However, they cannot ask for a specific diagnosis or for your detailed medical records. The information should be limited to what's needed to establish:

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

This right is protected under the Fair Housing Act and the New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination.^1,2

What Kind of Medical Documentation Is Acceptable?

If your disability is not obvious, a landlord can request a letter or documentation from a medical professional or qualified third party. This may include:

• A letter from your healthcare provider
• Documentation from a social worker or therapist
• Other evidence (like benefits statements) that show you have a qualifying disability

Your landlord cannot require a specific form or demand more details than necessary. Typically, a brief letter confirming that you have a disability and need the accommodation is enough.

How Do You Submit a Request?

There is no official New Hampshire state form required for reasonable accommodation requests, but most renters submit their requests in writing for clarity and record-keeping.

• Describe the accommodation you need
• State that you have a disability (no need to name it)
• Attach supporting documentation or a healthcare provider's note if your disability is not obvious

The New Hampshire Human Rights Commission provides information and takes complaints if you believe your rights have been violated. For more, visit the NH Human Rights Commission Complaint Filing page.

Relevant Official Forms

• Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter (Template)
  • Use: Not a state-mandated form, but writing a clear letter is standard practice. For example, "I am requesting permission for an emotional support animal due to my disability." Attach brief documentation if needed.
  • Where to find: HUD Reasonable Accommodation Guidance
• NH Human Rights Commission Discrimination Complaint Form
  • Use: If your accommodation request is denied or ignored, you can file a discrimination complaint here.
  • Where to find: NH HRC Housing Complaint Packet

What Tribunal Handles Disputes?

If you have trouble resolving accommodation issues, you can contact the New Hampshire Human Rights Commission, which handles landlord-tenant discrimination complaints in the state.

What Laws Apply?

• NH Law Against Discrimination (RSA 354-A)
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws ensure renters with disabilities have equal opportunity to housing and allow reasonable requests for accommodations.

FAQ

1. Can my landlord ask for my actual diagnosis or medical records? No. Landlords may only request enough information to verify the need for the accommodation—not the diagnosis itself or full records.
2. What if my landlord denies my accommodation request? You can file a complaint with the New Hampshire Human Rights Commission. Include documentation showing you made the request and any response or lack thereof.
3. Is there a deadline for landlords to respond to accommodation requests? While there is no set timeframe, landlords must respond promptly. Unreasonable delays could be seen as discrimination under the law.
4. Do I need an attorney to file a discrimination complaint? No. You can file a complaint with the NH Human Rights Commission without a lawyer, though legal advice is always an option.
5. Are emotional support animals covered under these laws? Yes. Landlords must consider requests for emotional support animals as reasonable accommodations in most circumstances.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Human Rights Commission – For filing housing discrimination complaints (File a complaint)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): File a Fair Housing Complaint
• NH Legal Aid: Housing Discrimination – Free legal information for tenants

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1. New Hampshire Law Against Discrimination, RSA 354-A
2. HUD Joint Statement on Reasonable Accommodations
3. New Hampshire Human Rights Commission: Housing Discrimination Information

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