Can my landlord contact my doctor directly about my disability?

No. Your landlord should never contact your doctor directly without your written consent. They may only request documentation, not personal medical records or direct doctor communication.

Do I have to use a specific form for accommodation requests in Ohio?

No. You can use a recommended form from the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or write your own letter. The important part is describing your request clearly in writing.

What if my landlord ignores my request for a disability accommodation?

If your landlord does not respond or denies your request unfairly, you can file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission.

Can my landlord deny an accommodation because it costs too much?

Landlords do not have to provide accommodations if it causes an undue financial or administrative burden. Any denial must be explained in writing.

Is any information I provide about my disability confidential?

Yes. Any documentation you share must be kept private by your landlord and only used for the accommodation process.

Medical Proof for Disability Accommodations in Ohio Rentals

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Ohio published: June 21, 2025

If you live in Ohio and have a disability, you may wonder if your landlord can ask for medical proof when you request an accommodation. This article explains when documentation is required, your privacy rights, and how to make—or respond to—an accommodation request fairly and legally.

Understanding Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Disabilities

The federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Ohio's Fair Housing Law ensure that renters with disabilities have equal rights to housing. A reasonable accommodation is a change in rules, policies, or services that allows a person with a disability equal use of the rental unit.

Examples include allowing a service animal, assigning a parking space, or installing grab bars.
Landlords must grant reasonable accommodations unless doing so is an undue financial or administrative burden, or fundamentally alters the nature of housing.

Can a Landlord Ask for Medical Proof in Ohio?

Yes, but only in limited situations. Under the Ohio Revised Code (see Section 4112.02) and federal law, landlords may ask for verification that you have a qualifying disability and need the accommodation. However, they cannot demand specific medical details or your diagnosis.

Landlords may request documentation if your disability or need for accommodation is not obvious.
If your disability and the accommodation need are apparent (for example, a wheelchair user requesting a ramp), documentation usually is not required.
Documentation should come from a healthcare professional, social worker, or other qualified third party—not necessarily your doctor.
Landlords cannot request your full medical records, only verification confirming your eligibility.

What Should Medical Documentation Include?

The documentation needs to confirm two things:

You have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
The accommodation requested is necessary for you to use and enjoy your home.

You are not required to disclose your diagnosis or detailed medical history.

How to Request a Disability Accommodation in Ohio

While you can make requests verbally, it is best to submit your accommodation request in writing. This creates a record and protects your rights if there are disputes later. You may use an official form or write your own letter.

Relevant Official Forms

Reasonable Accommodation/Modification Request Form (no statewide form number)
When to use: Use this form or a written letter as soon as you recognize a need for an accommodation. Example: You have newly acquired a service animal and need approval.
Official source: Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (Ohio Civil Rights Commission)

Tip: Only provide the documentation a landlord is legally allowed to ask for. Respect your own privacy and respond promptly to reasonable requests.

What Happens If a Request Is Denied?

Landlords in Ohio must respond promptly and cannot refuse a request without legitimate reason. If your request is denied or ignored, you can file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (the agency that handles housing disputes), or with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Filing a Complaint for Discrimination

Ohio Civil Rights Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
When to use: If you believe your landlord unlawfully denied your accommodation request.
How to use: Complete and submit the complaint form online or mail it to your regional Ohio Civil Rights Commission office.
Official source: File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Ohio

Quick Summary

In Ohio, a landlord can ask for medical proof only if your disability or accommodation need is not readily apparent. Always provide only the necessary verification—never more than the law requires.

FAQ: Ohio Renters and Medical Proof for Accommodations

Can my landlord contact my doctor directly about my disability?
Your landlord should never contact your doctor without your written consent. They may only request documentation, not direct communication or detailed records.
Do I have to fill out a specific form for accommodation requests in Ohio?
No. You may use an official form from the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or write your own letter. Any written request is valid as long as it describes your need.
What if my landlord ignores my accommodation request?
If your landlord does not respond or unfairly denies your request, you can file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission.
Can my landlord deny my request because they think it's too expensive?
Landlords only have to provide accommodations if the request is reasonable and not an undue financial burden. If denied, they must explain why in writing.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. Any documentation you provide must be kept private by your landlord and cannot be shared with others except as required by law.

Conclusion: Key Points for Renters in Ohio

Landlords may require medical proof for disability-related accommodations only in certain situations, as allowed by Ohio and federal law.
Provide documentation confirming your need—never your full diagnosis or full medical records.
If you face discrimination, file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission.

Staying informed and keeping records of all correspondence will protect your rights as a renter in Ohio.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Ohio Civil Rights Commission – File housing discrimination complaints and get information on your rights.
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4112 – Civil Rights Law
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Housing Office – For federal complaints.
Ohio Revised Code § 4112.02 – Unlawful discriminatory practices

Fair Housing Act: https://www.justice.gov/crt/fair-housing-act-1
Ohio Civil Rights Commission: https://www.occ.ohio.gov
Ohio Revised Code Section 4112.02: https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4112.02