Medical Proof Requirements for Disability Accommodations in North Dakota

If you’re a renter in North Dakota who needs disability accommodations in your home, you might wonder: Can your landlord ask for medical proof when you request these changes? Understanding your rights under state and federal law helps ensure you get the support you need—without giving up your privacy or facing unnecessary hurdles.

What Laws Protect Renters with Disabilities in North Dakota?

Renters with disabilities are protected under both federal and state laws. Key protections come from the Fair Housing Act and the North Dakota Human Rights Act. These laws require landlords to make reasonable accommodations for renters with disabilities unless it causes an undue financial or administrative burden.

Reasonable Accommodation Examples

• Allowing a service or emotional support animal, even if pets are normally not allowed
• Changing parking policies for easier access
• Permitting the installation of grab bars or ramps

Landlords are not allowed to refuse your rental application or evict you because of a disability.

Can Your Landlord Request Medical Proof?

Landlords can request verification that you have a disability and that the requested accommodation is related to your disability. However, they are not allowed to ask for your specific diagnosis, detailed medical records, or invasive information.

• You may be asked for a letter from a medical professional, therapist, or other qualified party confirming your eligibility for accommodation.
• The verification should only state that you have a disability-related need—not divulge confidential details.

For most requests, a simple letter from a healthcare provider explaining your need is enough. The law tries to balance your right to privacy with a landlord’s need for reasonable documentation.^[1]

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

You do not have to use a special form, but putting your request in writing creates a helpful record. If your landlord asks for documentation, you can provide a note from your healthcare provider.

• Example: If you need a service animal in a “no pets” apartment, and your landlord asks for medical proof, you can submit a letter from your doctor or therapist stating your need for the animal, without specifying your diagnosis.
• You do not have to provide your entire medical history, but the documentation should show that there is a disability and that your request is related to it.

Relevant Official Forms and Tribunals in North Dakota

• Reasonable Accommodation Request (Sample Letter): No state-specific form is required. You can use the guidance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Sample Request Letter.
  • Use this template to make a clear, written request to your landlord. It helps protect your rights if disputes arise.
• North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights: This state agency enforces fair housing laws. If your request is denied or you face discrimination, you can file a complaint.
  • File online or download the North Dakota Human Rights Complaint Form.
  • Example: You ask for a reasonable accommodation and are denied or retaliated against. Filing this form starts the investigation process.
  • Agency website: North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights

The North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights is the main agency that investigates housing discrimination, including issues around disability accommodations.

Your Rights and Steps if Denied an Accommodation

If your landlord denies your request for a reasonable accommodation, or asks for more proof than the law allows, you have options:

• Politely provide a healthcare provider’s letter if you haven’t already
• Remind your landlord that state and federal law protect your right to reasonable accommodation
• If still denied or retaliation happens, file a complaint with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights or with HUD

FAQs About Disability Accommodation Proof in North Dakota

1. Can my landlord ask for my full medical records?
   No, landlords can only request documentation verifying your need—never detailed records or a specific diagnosis.
2. What if I don’t have a doctor? Can another professional verify my need?
   Yes, a therapist, counselor, or another qualified professional can provide verification.
3. Is my request confidential?
   Landlords must keep any information about your disability confidential and only use it for accommodation purposes.
4. What happens if my landlord refuses my request?
   If refused, you can file a fair housing complaint through the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights or HUD.
5. Do I have to use a specific form to request accommodations?
   No, while no form is required, a written request (even by email) is advised for your records.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Landlords in North Dakota can ask for basic proof of disability, but not your medical records or diagnosis.
• Requests for accommodation should be related to your disability and handled through simple written documentation from a professional.
• If denied, you have the right to file a complaint with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• File a housing discrimination complaint with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights
• North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights – Main Site
• HUD Disability Rights Information
• North Dakota Human Rights Act – Full Legislation

---

1. North Dakota Human Rights Act, Section 47-16 (State Rental Laws & Accommodations)
2. Federal Fair Housing Act (Federal Protections for Disability Accommodations)
3. HUD – Reasonable Accommodations under the Fair Housing Act

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations