How do Arizona lease landlord/tenant disputes work?
How do Arizona lease landlord/tenant disputes work?
Renting a home or apartment in Flagstaff, AZ can be complex. With the number of students flocking to the region, landlords often put tighter restrictions on rentals than they would in other areas. Moreover, renters may find themselves with a smaller pool of properties to choose from. When considering renting a house, condo, or apartment in Northern Arizona, it’s wise to begin your contract with a knowledge of landlord and tenant rights – and what to do if those are violated.
Common Arizona Landlord Tenant Disputes
Damage to Property
The expectation of any landlord when leasing a property to a renter is that the unit or home is returned to them in the same or better condition as it was at the beginning of the lease. Pets, unauthorized long-term house guests, and sometimes the age or professional status of the renters will often be regulated by the landlord in the lease to try to mitigate damage or risk. As a renter, abiding by these rules will help keep your lease valid and deposit secure, as will conducting a thorough walk-through of your new rental with your landlord to clearly identify any existing damage that may be noted by the property owner upon move-out.
Late or Missing Rent
If a tenant doesn’t pay their rent on time, the landlord or property manager has a legal right to seek additional payment to compensate for the delay. Late rent terms should be clearly outlined in the lease to make them actionable. If rent is missed entirely, the landlord has the right to begin eviction proceedings.
Breach of Lease Terms
Often, lessees think it may be alright to skim through their lease. Leases can be long-winded and sometimes shrouded in “legalese”; however, it is important to read through the lease thoroughly before signing. Landlords take care in preparing each lease to both protect their property and to keep their tenants in line with local regulations. Because of this, each lease is different and failing to comply with the terms it sets can jeopardize both lease lengths and deposits.
When to Consult a Lawyer
Whether you are a Flagstaff landlord whose tenant is failing to comply with the terms of your rental agreement or a tenant whose landlord is not meeting their burden of care, getting some legal advice can help. A skilled Arizona lease or rental attorney can help you understand your lease, your rights, and what steps you can take to protect your property and your finances. If a landlord/tenant dispute is jeopardizing your business or living situation, call Vaughan S. Winborne today. He’ll put his over 30 years of experience to work to make sure you and your assets are protected.