Vermont Landlords and Medical Proof for Disability Accommodations

If you are a renter in Vermont and need a disability-related accommodation from your landlord, you may wonder what kind of documentation your landlord can request. Understanding your rights is the first step in advocating for a safe, accessible home while respecting your privacy.

Understanding the Law: Reasonable Accommodations

Both Vermont state law and federal law require landlords to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations might include things like allowing a service animal, installing a ramp, or designating an accessible parking space.

• Federal Protections: The federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) bars discrimination on the basis of disability and requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations for tenants who request them, unless it would cause undue hardship or fundamentally alter the nature of the housing.
• Vermont Protections: The Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act also protects renters against discrimination and covers disability accommodations in rental housing.^[1]

Landlords cannot deny you housing, charge extra fees, or retaliate simply because you request an accommodation for a disability.

Can Landlords Ask for Medical Proof?

In Vermont, landlords can ask for verification that you or someone in your household has a qualifying disability and needs the specific accommodation requested. However, they cannot demand detailed or intrusive medical records, nor can they ask directly about your diagnosis or the severity of your disability.^[2]

• The landlord may request a letter or statement from a medical provider, social worker, or another qualified professional verifying that you have a disability (as defined by law) and that the accommodation is necessary.
• The documentation only needs to confirm eligibility, not disclose your diagnosis.

For example, if you request a support animal in a "no pets" building, the landlord can ask for a brief letter from your healthcare provider stating you have a disability and benefit from the animal. They may not ask for your prescriptions, treatment details, or your provider's detailed notes.

Relevant Forms for Tenants

• Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (No statewide standardized number):
  • This form is commonly used by tenants to formally request a disability-related accommodation. It typically includes your contact information, your accommodation request, and a place for brief provider verification.
  • How it’s used: Fill out when you need a change to a rule, policy, or feature in your rental due to a disability.
  • Example: You would complete this form and attach a provider’s letter if you request a parking spot near your apartment.
  • Many Vermont housing providers and the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development offer sample templates.
• Verification of Disability Form (No statewide form):
  • Sometimes, landlords or housing agencies provide a template for your provider to complete. It's only to verify disability status and necessity for the accommodation.
  • Example: Your healthcare worker fills out this one-page form stating you meet the legal criteria for a disability and that the requested accommodation is necessary, without giving medical details.
  • If you use a federal housing program, check with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for form guidance.

How to Request an Accommodation in Vermont

Here are the usual steps for Vermont renters seeking a disability accommodation:

• Put your request in writing.
  • Explain your need, referencing that it’s due to a disability.
  • Attach a brief verification letter or form from your healthcare provider if your disability or need isn’t obvious.
• Keep a copy for your records and ask for a written response from your landlord.
• If your landlord denies your request or asks for excessive documentation, you can file a complaint.

Disagreements or refusals may be brought to the Vermont Human Rights Commission or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Where to File a Complaint or Get Help

• Vermont Human Rights Commission: Handles housing discrimination complaints in Vermont.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Office of Fair Housing: Federal authority for fair housing complaints.
• Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development – Fair Housing Resources

Which Tribunal Handles Tenancy Issues in Vermont?

Unlike some states with a dedicated housing tribunal, Vermont typically addresses rental disputes in state Superior Courts (Civil Division). Discrimination complaints go through the Vermont Human Rights Commission.

FAQ: Vermont Landlords and Medical Proof for Accommodations

1. Can my landlord ask for my full medical records?
   No. Landlords in Vermont cannot ask for your medical records or diagnosis. They may only request a brief note or form verifying eligibility and need for accommodation.
2. What should a verification letter from my provider say?
   It should state you have a disability (without naming it) and that the requested accommodation is necessary for your use and enjoyment of the home.
3. If my landlord refuses my reasonable accommodation, what can I do?
   You can make a complaint with the Vermont Human Rights Commission or HUD. Keep all records of your requests and responses.
4. Are there official forms I must use in Vermont?
   No single statewide form is required, but using a written request and a brief provider letter is recommended. Federal programs may have their own forms.
5. Do these rights apply to all rental housing?
   Generally yes, but small owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units may be exempt. Check with the Human Rights Commission for details.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Landlords can ask for basic verification of disability and need for accommodation—but not invasive medical records.
• Put your accommodation request and any provider verification in writing, and keep copies.
• If you face a refusal or discrimination, contact the Vermont Human Rights Commission for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Human Rights Commission — file discrimination complaints and get information (802-828-2480).
• Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development: Fair Housing — educational resources and support.
• Vermont Legal Aid – Renters’ Rights — free legal advice and information for renters.
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity — federal fair housing guidance.

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1. Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act: View official legislation.
2. HUD Reasonable Accommodations Guidance: Read the federal guidance.

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