Oregon Landlord Requests for Medical Proof: Your Rights

If you're a renter in Oregon living with a disability, you have the right to request reasonable accommodations from your landlord. Understanding when and what type of medical proof your landlord can require is key to asserting your rights without unnecessary stress. This guide explains your protections and the legal process in plain English, so you can navigate requests for accommodations confidently in Oregon.

Your Right to Disability Accommodation in Oregon

Both federal law (the Fair Housing Act) and Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 659A protect residents with disabilities from housing discrimination. If you have a physical or mental impairment that limits one or more major life activities—and need an accommodation to use or enjoy your rental—you are entitled to request that change from your landlord.

Can a Landlord Require Medical Proof?

Landlords in Oregon are allowed to request information confirming both your disability and the need for the requested accommodation. However, they cannot ask for your specific diagnosis or demand full medical records. Instead, the request generally requires:

• Verification that you have a qualifying disability (as defined by law)
• A professional's confirmation that the requested accommodation is related to your disability

This verification can come from a doctor, licensed counselor, case manager, or another qualified third party who is familiar with your disability status.

What Documentation Is Enough?

The documentation needed is usually a simple letter or form from the qualified provider. You are not required to share the details of your medical condition. For example, your provider might write a letter stating, “Due to a disability, this individual requires a support animal in order to have equal use and enjoyment of the residence.”

The Oregon Civil Rights Division, part of the Bureau of Labor and Industries, investigates disputes about housing accommodations. You may also use their Housing Discrimination Complaint Form to report a violation.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Reasonable Accommodation Request (No Official Form): Oregon does not require a standardized form for reasonable accommodation requests. A common sample letter might include:
  • Your name and address
  • The specific accommodation needed
  • Contact information for your qualified provider (for verification, not for medical details)

  Give this letter directly to your landlord and keep a copy for your records. Sample letters are often available on government or advocacy sites.

• BOLI Housing Discrimination Complaint Form: Used if your landlord refuses a lawful request or demands excessive medical information. Find and submit online at the Oregon BOLI official complaint page.

Keep your communication in writing whenever possible—and save copies.

How Oregon’s Law Protects You

Landlords cannot:

• Ask for specific medical records or your diagnosis
• Reject your request just because you couldn’t provide confidential details
• Charge you extra fees for an accommodation (such as waiving a pet fee for a service animal)

If your request is denied, you have the right to file a complaint with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI).

Which Tribunal Handles These Issues?

Disputes about landlord requirements for medical proof are overseen by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries Civil Rights Division. If needed, your next step may be to file a formal complaint with this agency.

FAQ: Oregon Landlords and Medical Proof

1. Can my landlord call my doctor directly?
   No. Your landlord may only contact your provider to confirm the information you give—if you’ve allowed this in writing. Your privacy is protected under state and federal law.
2. Is my landlord allowed to charge fees for reasonable accommodations?
   No. Landlords may not charge extra for accommodations related to a disability, such as a support animal.
3. Do I need to complete a specific form in Oregon to ask for accommodations?
   No. Oregon does not require a specific form. A clear, written request (letter or email) is enough, but consider including your provider’s statement for faster approval.
4. What if my landlord denies my request or wants excessive details?
   You can file a complaint with the Oregon BOLI Civil Rights Division using their online housing discrimination form.
5. How much medical information do I have to provide?
   Only enough to show you have a legal disability and that the accommodation is necessary. You do not need to disclose your diagnosis or medical records.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

• Landlords may ask for proof of disability and need, but not specific diagnoses or medical records
• Oregon law protects your privacy and right to accommodations at no added cost
• Use written requests and contact BOLI if your rights are denied

With proper documentation and knowledge of your rights, you can ensure fair treatment while requesting accommodations in your Oregon rental.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon BOLI Housing Discrimination Complaint Form – for reporting violations or requesting investigation
• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries Civil Rights Division – main agency for landlord-tenant disability complaints, phone: (971) 673-0764
• Oregon Housing and Community Services – general renter and accessibility resources
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – for federal housing discrimination complaints

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1. Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 659A – Discrimination (State Law)
2. HUD – Reasonable Accommodations and Modifications for People with Disabilities
3. Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries, Civil Rights Division

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