Landlord and Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

questions & answers

Question: A professional evaluated the reason why only 1/2 my rented apt works correctly. The fuse box is dangerously wired. Now after 11 months, due to the apt may catch on FIRE at any given moment I'm forced to move-out. Do I have any compensation rights?

Answer:

A landlord is required to do the following under Arizona law. A.R.S. §§ 33-1322 – 1324. 

 • Provide the tenant with the name and address of the property’s owner and manager

• Provide the tenant with a free copy of the Arizona Landlord and Tenant Act

 • Provide the tenant with a signed copy of the lease

• Provide the tenant with possession of the residence

• Comply with applicable building codes

 • Make necessary repairs so that the residence is habitable

• Keep common areas clean

• Maintain all electrical, plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning equipment

 • Provide for the removal of trash

• Supply running water and reasonable amounts of hot water

A.R.S. § 33-1324 requires that a landlord make repairs or whatever is necessary to keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition. This includes keeping the apartment up to date with applicable building codes that affect health and safety of tenants. Arizona Revised Statute A.R.S. § 33-1361 requires a landlord to correct the deficiency within ten days of written notice from the tenant. The tenant may terminate the lease if the landlord does not correct the deficiency within 10 days of receiving written notice from the tenant. The written notice must state the exact nature of the deficiency and give the landlord notice that you will terminate lease if the deficiency is not corrected after 10 days have passed. There are other remedies provided under Arizona Revised Statute A.R.S. § 33-1364 which may entitle the tenant to reimbursement for alternate housing, and correct the deficiency at the landlord's expense but those remedies may or not be available to you depending on the specific circumstance.