Medical Proof Requirements for Disability Accommodations in RI

If you live in Rhode Island and need changes to your rental home because of a disability, you might wonder if your landlord can ask for medical proof of your condition. This guide explains what landlords can legally require, your privacy rights, and how to request accommodations under Rhode Island and federal law, all in clear and friendly language.

Disability Accommodations: Your Rights as a Rhode Island Renter

Federal and state laws protect renters with disabilities. Both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act make it illegal for landlords to discriminate based on disability. If you need a reasonable change to your home (an accommodation) or to the building’s rules, your landlord is required to consider your request, as long as it’s necessary and reasonable.¹

Can Landlords Ask for Medical Proof?

Landlords in Rhode Island can ask for information to verify that you have a disability and that you need the accommodation. However, they cannot:

• Ask for your specific diagnosis or detailed medical records
• Request information beyond what is necessary to confirm the need for the accommodation
• Deny your request just because you refuse to reveal private medical details

Instead, landlords may request a statement from a qualified professional (like your doctor, therapist, or other healthcare provider) confirming your disability and the reason for the accommodation, without disclosing your specific condition.

How to Request a Disability Accommodation

There is no official state-wide form in Rhode Island for making a reasonable accommodation request, but providing a written letter or using a sample form is a good practice. A healthcare professional can help you draft a simple note confirming your disability and why the requested change is necessary.

• Keep your request short and focused on your need
• Include a brief letter from a healthcare professional if your disability is not obvious
• Keep copies of everything you send

Sample Reasonable Accommodation Letter

While there is no official form code, the following example can help:

Dear [Landlord Name],
I am requesting a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act and Rhode Island law due to my disability. My healthcare provider (see attached note) has verified my need for [describe accommodation, e.g., an assistance animal, grab bars, reserved parking]. Please let me know if you need more information. Thank you.

For guidance, see official information on reasonable accommodations from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Relevant Forms and Processes

• Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights Discrimination Complaint Form (No form number):
  
  • When to use: If your landlord denies your accommodation request or asks for excessive medical documentation, you can file a complaint.
  • How to use: Complete the housing discrimination complaint form and submit it online, by mail, or in person.

Who Handles Tenancy Disputes in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, disability accommodation complaints are handled by the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights. They enforce the Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act and investigate allegations of housing discrimination.

Rhode Island Tenant Laws and Protections

Your rights regarding disability accommodations are covered by:

• Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws are enforced to ensure no one is denied reasonable housing access because of a disability.

FAQs: Disability Accommodations and Medical Proof in RI Rentals

1. Can my Rhode Island landlord ask for my specific medical records?
   No, landlords can only ask for confirmation of your disability and the need for the accommodation. They cannot require your diagnosis or medical history.
2. What information should my healthcare provider include in their letter?
   The letter should state that you have a disability (without specifying the diagnosis) and confirm your need for the requested accommodation.
3. What if my landlord denies my accommodation request?
   You can file a complaint with the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights or HUD if you believe you’ve been discriminated against.
4. Is there an official Rhode Island form to request an accommodation?
   No state-specific form exists, but putting your request in writing and including supporting documentation is recommended.
5. Will asking for an accommodation affect my rent or tenancy?
   It is illegal for your landlord to retaliate against you or increase rent solely because you requested a reasonable accommodation.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• Landlords can ask for limited medical verification, but not your diagnosis or full records
• File a complaint if you experience discrimination or improper denial
• Written requests and proper documentation help protect your rights

Knowing your rights ensures you get the housing changes needed, without sacrificing your privacy or dignity.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights – Guidance on fair housing, discrimination, and complaints
• HUD Fair Housing Complaints – Federal complaint process for discrimination
• Rhode Island District Court – Landlord-Tenant Cases – For formal legal disputes
• Contact Rhode Island Housing for general advice and resources for renters

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1. Rhode Island Fair Housing Practices Act
2. HUD-DOJ Joint Statement on Reasonable Accommodations

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