What counts as medical documentation?
Landlords may ask for medical documentation to assess a reasonable accommodation request, but requests must be reasonable and respect your privacy. Good documentation explains how a medical condition affects a specific tenancy need (for example, a mobility impairment that requires a main-floor unit). Mentioning the Residential Tenancies Branch in writing can help if a dispute follows.[1]
- Signed letter from a treating health professional describing limitations and recommended accommodation.
- Specialist reports or clinic summaries that explain functional impacts relevant to housing.
- Therapy notes or care plans that support ongoing accommodation needs.
- Prescriptions or assistive device letters that demonstrate necessity for specific unit features.
- Where privacy is a concern, a short confirming letter stating the accommodation needed (without full diagnosis) may suffice.
How to prepare and share documents
Keep records concise, factual, and limited to what is necessary to explain the accommodation. Avoid sharing full medical histories if a short letter will do. When you send documentation, mark it with the date and retain a copy for your records. If a landlord asks for more detail than seems necessary, remind them that privacy and relevancy limits apply and consider seeking advice before disclosing additional information.
What to do if a request is refused or ignored
If you cannot reach an agreement with your landlord, you can seek help from provincial bodies. The Manitoba Human Rights Commission handles discrimination complaints related to disability, and the Residential Tenancies Branch can assist with tenancy disputes and hearings.[2] Before filing, try a clear written request and document all communications—dates, names, and what was discussed. For practical help on resolving problems with landlords, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide and review your local rights in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.
Documentation checklist
- A short, dated letter from a treating clinician stating the accommodation needed and its functional basis.
- Any supporting specialist reports or relevant summaries.
- Copies of correspondence with the landlord and notes of verbal conversations.
- Evidence of steps you took to find reasonable alternatives, such as unit requests or timing proposals.
FAQ
- Can a landlord ask for my full medical records?
- No. A landlord should only request information necessary to assess the accommodation. A short letter describing functional limitations is often enough.
- What if I need to keep my condition private?
- You can provide a letter confirming the accommodation needed without listing a diagnosis. Ask that sensitive details remain confidential.
- Where can I file a complaint if accommodation is refused?
- You can contact the Manitoba Human Rights Commission for discrimination complaints and the Residential Tenancies Branch for tenancy disputes. See the resources below for official links.
How-To
- Gather concise documentation from a treating professional that explains functional impacts relevant to your housing need.
- Send a written accommodation request to your landlord that states the change you need and attaches the medical letter.
- Keep copies of all documents and a dated log of communications and responses.
- If refused, file with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission or contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch - Manitoba
- Manitoba Human Rights Commission
- Government of Manitoba - Housing and Tenancy Resources
