Current COVID-19 Eviction Protections for Arizona Renters

The COVID-19 pandemic led to many safeguards for renters in Arizona. While most statewide COVID-19 eviction bans have ended, some federal and local protections, as well as procedural requirements, may still help renters facing housing instability. This article explains what eviction protections are active in Arizona in 2024, which forms you may need, and how to navigate the eviction process.

What COVID-19 Eviction Protections Are Still Active in Arizona?

Most broad eviction moratoriums that were put in place during the height of the COVID-19 crisis have expired. As of 2024, there are no statewide eviction moratoriums in Arizona related to COVID-19. However, there are still important protections and programs you should know about:

• All landlords and courts must follow the usual Arizona eviction process, which means proper notice and formal court proceedings are required before an eviction can happen.
• Federal COVID-19 rental assistance programs may help with unpaid rent: For example, you can apply for Arizona's Rental Eviction Prevention assistance through the Arizona Department of Housing.
• Some cities and counties may have their own rental help or mediation programs—check with your local housing authority.
• Certain federal protections for renters in federally backed properties (like those with a Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac mortgage) still apply, including advance notice requirements before eviction filings for nonpayment.

The Arizona judicial system, specifically the Arizona Courts (Eviction Actions), handles all residential eviction cases.

How the Arizona Eviction Process Works

While emergency bans are over, Arizona law still requires landlords to follow these steps before legally evicting a renter:

• Provide a formal written notice (for example, a 5-Day Notice to Pay or Quit for nonpayment).
• Wait out the required notice period (e.g., 5 days for nonpayment).
• If payment or correction does not occur, file an eviction lawsuit (called a "special detainer action") in court.
• Attend a court hearing, where you have the right to present your side and raise any defenses.

Official Forms Arizona Renters May Need

• 5-Day Notice to Pay or Quit:
  Used by landlords when a tenant is behind on rent. If you receive this notice, it means your landlord is asking you to pay the amount due within 5 days or leave. It is the first required step before an eviction for nonpayment can be filed. See an official sample form and instructions (PDF) from the Arizona Courts.
• Application for Rental Eviction Prevention Assistance:
  Renters facing eviction due to COVID-19 hardship can still seek help from the Arizona Department of Housing. This application helps eligible renters receive emergency rent payments to avoid eviction.
• Answer to Special Detainer Complaint (AZWAR1F):
  If you are served with a court eviction complaint, complete and file this form to respond. Filing an answer lets you present your reasons or defenses at the eviction hearing. Access the form and instructions from Arizona Court Help - Answers.

Always review notices and court papers carefully. If you are unsure about your rights or forms, seek legal help as soon as possible.

Relevant Arizona Tenant-Landlord Laws and Agencies

• Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Arizona Revised Statutes Title 33, Chapter 10) governs most rental and eviction issues statewide.
• Arizona Courts - Eviction Actions: Official hub for court rules, forms, and procedure information.

FAQs: Arizona COVID-19 Eviction Protections

1. Are there any COVID-19 eviction bans still in effect in Arizona?
   No, as of 2024, Arizona does not have any statewide COVID-19-related eviction bans. All evictions must follow standard legal procedures.
2. Can my landlord evict me for unpaid rent due to COVID-19 hardships?
   Standard eviction law applies, but you may be eligible for rental assistance to help pay past-due rent. Check with the Arizona Department of Housing for current programs.
3. What should I do if I get a 5-Day Notice to Pay or Quit?
   Act fast: You have 5 days to pay the amount due or move out. If you need help, contact a rental assistance agency and consider filing an answer if an eviction claim is filed in court.
4. Where do I file eviction-related forms or answer an eviction complaint?
   You must file your response at the specific Arizona Justice Court where your landlord filed the special detainer action against you.
5. Is there help for renters who can’t pay rent due to COVID-19?
   Yes; programs like the Arizona Eviction Prevention and Emergency Rental Assistance may still accept applications depending on funding. Visit the Arizona Department of Housing site for details.

Key Takeaways for Arizona Renters

• COVID-19 moratoriums have ended, but you still have legal rights in the eviction process.
• Always respond promptly to eviction notices and court papers.
• Rental assistance is still available for many; apply as soon as possible if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arizona Department of Housing: Information on emergency rental assistance and eviction prevention.
• Arizona Court Self-Help Center: Official forms and legal information.
• Arizona Courts – Eviction Actions: Consolidated court and process resources.
• Contact your local city or county housing authority for local programs.
• Legal help: AZ Law Help is a government-sponsored portal for free or low-cost legal assistance for renters.

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1. Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Arizona Revised Statutes Title 33, Chapter 10): official legislation
2. Arizona Department of Housing Rental Eviction Prevention Assistance: program details
3. Arizona Courts – Eviction Actions: official tribunal and process
4. Official notice and response forms: Justice Court Self-Help

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