I requested an ESA accommodation from my landlord,and things got weird fast.
I provided an ESA letter from my doctor, who I’ve been seeing for years. Right after that, my landlord contacted my doctor directly and now wants me to sign a medical release form so she can speak with my doctor.
This feels really invasive to me. I already gave a letter from a licensed provider confirming the need for an ESA. From what I understand, landlords can ask for documentation, but asking to talk directly to my doctor seems like too much.
I’m not comfortable signing a release that would give access to my medical information.
Has anyone dealt with something like this? Is this normal, or is she going beyond what’s allowed? What would you do in this situation?
Update:
Thank you everyone for the responses, this really confirmed what I was thinking.
I’m not comfortable signing a medical release and will not be doing that.
While I understand that she is doing that to make sure that this is legitimate letter, calling my doctor and requesting medical release form just so intrusive.
This isn’t the first time I’ve had concerns about how she handles things. When I applied for the apartment, she contacted my employer directly and asked for information beyond basic employment verification, which HR later told me was not appropriate.
I have everything in writing.
Appreciate all the advice here.