Can my landlord ask for my doctor's detailed records in Pennsylvania?

No, your landlord can only request a letter verifying a disability and the need for an accommodation, not your full medical records.

Do I have to use a specific form to request an accommodation from my landlord?

No official form is needed, but it is best to submit your request in writing for clarity and record-keeping.

What should I do if my landlord ignores or denies my accommodation request?

File a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission by using their Housing Discrimination Questionnaire.

How quickly should my landlord respond to an accommodation request?

There is no set deadline, but landlords should respond promptly; unreasonable delays may be considered discriminatory.

Can I request an emotional support animal as a reasonable accommodation?

Yes, you may request an emotional support animal with suitable documentation from a healthcare provider.

Medical Proof Required for Disability Accommodations in PA?

Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Pennsylvania published: June 21, 2025

If you are a renter in Pennsylvania and need a disability accommodation, you may wonder what information your landlord can request. Understanding your rights under federal and state laws can help you navigate requests for reasonable accommodations and the medical documentation sometimes required.

Your Right to Reasonable Accommodation in Housing

Both federal law (Fair Housing Act) and Pennsylvania's Human Relations Act protect renters with disabilities from discrimination. These laws require landlords to provide reasonable accommodations (such as a reserved parking spot or permission for a service animal) when necessary for a tenant's equal use and enjoyment of the home.

Can Landlords Ask for Proof of Disability?

Landlords in Pennsylvania can ask for documentation if your disability or the need for accommodation is not obvious. But they cannot ask for your detailed medical records or diagnosis. Acceptable proof is a letter from a qualified healthcare or social service professional confirming you have a disability and need the requested accommodation.

The landlord may not require the letter to reveal your diagnosis.
The verification can be from a doctor, therapist, counselor, or caseworker.
Requests for "proof" must be reasonable and relevant to your request.

For example, if you request a service animal but your disability is not visible, you may provide a note from your physician stating you have a disability and the animal is needed, without including medical specifics.

What Documentation Can a Landlord Request?

Under Pennsylvania law and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development guidelines, documentation should only confirm that you (1) meet the legal definition of disability, and (2) need the accommodation. Your landlord cannot demand more than is necessary to support your request.

How to Request an Accommodation

While there is no official statewide form, it is best to submit your request in writing. Include details about the accommodation you need and, if not obvious, a supporting letter from your provider. Some local fair housing offices recommend using a sample reasonable accommodation letter as guidance.

Describe the accommodation you are requesting (e.g., accessible parking or assistance animal).
Attach a brief healthcare provider statement if your disability is not evident.
Submit copies to your landlord and keep one for your records.

What If Your Request Is Denied?

If your landlord refuses a valid accommodation or asks for excessive medical information, you can file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC). The PHRC investigates housing discrimination and enforces fair housing laws statewide.

Relevant Forms and Filing a Complaint

PHRC Housing Discrimination Questionnaire – Used to begin the official process for a discrimination complaint. View and download the PHRC form.
- Example: If your landlord denies a reasonable modification or asks for your private medical charts, complete and submit this form. The PHRC will contact you to investigate.

Pennsylvania does not have a mandated "tenant request for accommodation" form, but you may refer to HUD's reasonable accommodation guidance when preparing your own.

If you believe your rights to an accommodation are being violated, document all interactions and complaint submissions.

Key Points for Renters

Landlords can request documentation that you have a disability, but cannot demand specific diagnoses or private medical history.
You have a right to reasonable modifications and accommodations to make your home accessible.
If you face a denial, you can file a complaint with the PHRC or the federal HUD office.

For more on Pennsylvania tenant protections, refer to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.

FAQs: Disability Accommodations and Proof in Pennsylvania

Can my landlord ask for my doctor's detailed records? No. They may only request a letter verifying you have a disability and need an accommodation, not your full medical records.
Do I have to use a specific form to request an accommodation? No. You may submit a written letter or email, but written documentation is encouraged for clarity.
What if my landlord ignores my accommodation request? You can file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission using their Housing Discrimination Questionnaire.
How long does a landlord have to respond to my request? Landlords must respond promptly, usually within 10-14 days, but there is no statutory deadline. Unreasonable delays may be considered discrimination.
Are emotional support animals covered? Yes. Documentation from a licensed healthcare provider can be used to request accommodation for emotional support animals under Pennsylvania and federal law.

Summary: What to Remember

In Pennsylvania, landlords can require proof of disability only if needed, but cannot demand private medical details.
You may submit a simple provider letter as documentation.
Use the PHRC process if you feel your rights are violated.

Keep written records and seek support if you face challenges getting your accommodation approved.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) – File discrimination complaints and get information on fair housing rights
HUD Fair Housing Complaint Online – Federal complaint option for renters
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency: Fair Housing Tip Sheet – Quick overview of fair housing and disability rights