Tenants in Alberta sometimes need reasonable accommodations for health or disability-related needs. When a tenant asks for a change — such as a parking space, a ramp, a service-animal exception, or an adjusted rule — a medical note can help explain the need without sharing unnecessary personal details. This article explains how medical notes are used in accommodation requests, what landlords can reasonably ask for, and the official steps tenants can take if a request is denied. You will find practical, tenant-friendly guidance on preparing a request, protecting your privacy, supporting documentation, relevant provincial resources[3], and how to apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service if an issue remains unresolved[1].
How medical notes are used
Medical notes are proof that a change is related to health or disability, but they do not need to include a full diagnosis. Under Alberta tenancy rules, landlords can ask for reasonable evidence to assess a request while still respecting privacy obligations under provincial law and privacy statutes.[2] A well-written note will state the accommodation needed, the functional limitation, and any timeframe or duration, without describing unnecessary medical details.
Making a formal accommodation request
Follow a clear, written process so both you and your landlord have the same record. Landlords have obligations around responding and making reasonable efforts; review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more on landlord duties. Also consider habitability and health issues when asking for changes and see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting if conditions affect your request.
- Include a short medical note that explains the functional limitation and the accommodation you need.
- State the exact change you are requesting (for example, a reserved parking stall or an exception to a pet rule).
- Suggest a reasonable timeline for implementation and any urgency or ongoing review dates.
What landlords can reasonably ask for
Landlords can ask for documentation to verify that the accommodation relates to a health need, but they should not demand unnecessary medical details. They must balance tenant privacy with the need to assess and implement reasonable accommodations in the rental unit or building.
If a request is refused or delayed
If a landlord refuses or delays without reasonable grounds, tenants should follow a clear escalation path: send a written follow-up, keep records of communications, and request mediation or a decision through official dispute channels if needed.
- Send a written follow-up and keep copies of the original request, the medical note, and any correspondence.
- If there is no reasonable response, ask the landlord for written reasons for refusal and a timeline to reconsider.
- If the issue is unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) for a decision or mediation[1].
FAQ
- Do I have to share a full medical history with my landlord?
- No. You should provide a concise medical note that explains the functional limitation and the accommodation required without sharing a full diagnosis or detailed history.
- Can a landlord demand a particular form or doctor?
- Landlords can request reasonable evidence but generally cannot insist on a specific doctor or highly invasive documentation; they may ask for a verification letter from a regulated health professional.
- What if my landlord still refuses my accommodation?
- You can document your interactions and apply to the RTDRS for dispute resolution if the landlord refuses without reasonable justification[1].
How-To
- Collect supporting documentation: obtain a short medical note or verification from a regulated health professional that states the functional need.
- Write a clear request: state the accommodation you need, propose a timeline, and attach the medical note.
- Submit the request in writing to your landlord by email or registered mail and keep a copy.
- Keep records: note dates, times and any responses from your landlord in case you need to escalate.
- If unresolved, apply to the RTDRS for mediation or a ruling and include your documentation and communication log[1].
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta) — official legislation
- Service Alberta: residential tenancy information and forms
For tenants searching for accessible or pet-friendly listings, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to broaden your search and find units that match accommodation needs.
