When something breaks in a rental home, the first question is often, “Who’s responsible for fixing it, the landlord or the tenant?” In Arizona, the answer depends on the cause of the issue and what your lease agreement says. Understanding these responsibilities helps avoid disputes, protects your property, and keeps everyone on the same page.
At E&I Real Estate & Property Management, we help both owners and tenants navigate these responsibilities clearly and fairly.
Landlord Responsibilities Under Arizona Law
Arizona law (A.R.S. § 33-1324) requires landlords to keep rental properties safe, habitable, and in good repair.
That means landlords are generally responsible for:
Plumbing, heating, and cooling systems: Ensuring water, heat, and air conditioning function properly.
Electrical systems: Outlets, switches, wiring, and lighting must be safe and operational.
Structural elements: Walls, floors, roofs, and windows must be sound and weatherproof.
Major appliances provided with the rental as outlined in the lease: washers, dryers, stoves, refrigerators, mircowaves, and dishwashers.
Pest control: Unless infestations are caused by tenant negligence.
Smoke detectors and safety devices: Must be installed and functional.
Landlords must also comply with city building codes and maintain all common areas in multi-unit properties.
Tenant Responsibilities
While landlords handle major repairs, tenants have legal duties too.
According to A.R.S. § 33-1341, tenants must:
Keep the property clean and sanitary
Use fixtures and appliances properly
Dispose of trash and waste safely
Prevent damage caused by negligence or misuse
Report maintenance issues promptly: Ignoring a small leak can lead to major damage and costly repairs.
Follow lease terms: Including pet policies, occupancy limits, and maintenance instructions.
If damage results from tenant misuse, neglect, or accidents, the tenant is responsible for covering the repair cost.
Common Scenarios: Who Pays for What?
| Repair Scenario | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Leaky faucet or broken pipe | Landlord (unless caused by tenant misuse) |
| Clogged toilet or drain | Tenant, if caused by misuse (e.g., flushing non-flushable items) |
| Air conditioner stops working | Landlord |
| Pest infestation | Landlord, unless caused by poor tenant housekeeping |
| Broken appliance (provided with unit) | Landlord |
| Burned-out lightbulbs or air filters | Tenant |
| Damage from hanging TV, pictures, or shelves | Tenant |
| Roof leak or exterior damage | Landlord |
| Smoke detector battery replacement | Tenant (unless system-integrated) |
Why Prompt Reporting Matters
Catching small issues early can prevent big repairs later.
For example, a small water spot on the ceiling could signal a roof leak. If reported early, it’s a quick patch — if ignored, it could turn into drywall and insulation replacement.
That’s why E&I Real Estate & Property Management asks all tenants to report maintenance concerns immediately through our online portal. We coordinate with trusted local vendors to ensure repairs are handled quickly and professionally.
Tips for Landlords
Conduct seasonal inspections to identify hidden issues early.
Clearly define maintenance responsibilities in your lease.
Keep a maintenance reserve (typically 5–10% of rent) for repairs.
Work with a licensed property management company to oversee vendors and tenant communications.
Tips for Tenants
Submit maintenance requests via the online tenant portal.
Replace HVAC filters regularly to maintain efficiency.
Avoid DIY repairs unless authorized. It can void your lease terms.
Keep the property clean to reduce pest issues and wear-and-tear.
A well-maintained home benefits everyone. It protects the landlord’s investment and ensures a comfortable living environment for tenants.
If you own a rental property in Buckeye, Avondale, Goodyear, or Tolleson, E&I Real Estate & Property Management can help you manage repairs, inspections, and tenant relations, so you can focus on your investment, not the headaches.