Arizona Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Protections Explained

If you are a renter in Arizona and have experienced domestic violence—or know someone who has—it's important to understand the legal rights and protections available to you. Arizona has specific laws to help protect tenants in these situations, including options for breaking your lease early and requiring your landlord to change the locks. This guide explains your rights, the necessary forms, and steps you can take, all based on official state resources and up-to-date legislation.

Key Legal Protections for Tenants Experiencing Domestic Violence

Arizona law provides several important protections to renters who are survivors of domestic violence. These laws are designed to provide safer housing options and reduce the risk of further harm.

Arizona Residential Landlord & Tenant Act Protections

• Early Lease Termination: You may end your rental agreement early in certain situations without penalties.
• Lock Change Rights: You can require your landlord to change the locks on your rental unit promptly.
• Anti-Discrimination: Landlords cannot retaliate against you for exercising your rights under these laws.

All these rights are set out in the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. § 33-1318).

How to Break Your Lease Safely If You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence

Arizona lets renters who are victims of domestic violence terminate their lease early after meeting certain documentation requirements. This can help you move quickly to a safer place without fear of additional fees or penalties.

Required Form: Notice of Termination Due to Domestic Violence

• Form Name: Notice to Terminate Rental Agreement Due to Domestic Violence (no official state form number, but use a written notice that meets legal requirements)
• When and How to Use: Deliver written notice to your landlord stating you are the victim of domestic violence and request termination of the lease. Attach documentation such as a protective order or police report.
• Where to Find Sample Text: Arizona Department of Housing - Sample Domestic Violence Lease Termination Notice

Example: If you have a restraining order or filed a police report for a domestic violence incident in the last 30 days, you can give this notice with supporting documentation to your landlord to break your lease.

Changing the Locks: Your Rights and How to Request

As a renter affected by domestic violence, you have the right to request a prompt lock change so that the abuser cannot access your residence (even if they are on the lease).

• Request in Writing: Notify your landlord in writing and provide documentation of domestic violence (such as a protective order or police report) as required by A.R.S. § 33-1318(D).
• Landlord's Responsibility: The landlord must change the locks within 48 hours. If they do not, you may change the locks yourself after giving them a key.

You do not have to pay extra rent or fees to use these protections. Your safety is the state's priority, and these laws exist to help you take action quickly.

What Documentation Counts?

To access these protections, you will need one of the following:

• A valid order of protection (restraining order) against the abuser
• A police report from an incident of domestic violence within the past thirty days

Your landlord is required by law to keep any documentation you provide strictly confidential.

Where to Get Help: Arizona Tribunals and Housing Agencies

If your landlord refuses to honor your rights, you may contact the Arizona Justice Courts (the state's primary tribunal for residential landlord-tenant matters), or the Arizona Department of Housing for further guidance. Understanding your rights under the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act can be an important step in protecting yourself and your housing stability.¹

FAQ: Arizona Domestic Violence Tenant Rights

1. Can my landlord charge me extra fees if I break my lease due to domestic violence?
   No, as long as you follow the legal steps and provide the necessary documentation, Arizona law prohibits landlords from penalizing you with extra rent or fees for early termination due to domestic violence.
2. How quickly does my landlord need to change the locks?
   Arizona law requires that locks be changed within 48 hours after you provide the written request and required documentation. If your landlord does not act, you may change the locks yourself and provide the landlord a copy of the new key.
3. What documentation do I need to use these protections?
   You must provide a copy of either a police report from an incident of domestic violence (within 30 days) or a valid protective order.
4. Will my landlord keep my information private?
   Yes. The law requires your landlord to keep all domestic violence-related documentation confidential.
5. Where can I get legal help if my landlord refuses to honor these protections?
   You can contact your local Arizona Justice Court, the Arizona Department of Housing, or a legal aid service. Links to key resources are listed below.

Key Takeaways

• Arizona renters facing domestic violence have special rights to end their lease early and change locks for safety.
• Written notice and official documentation are required for these protections.
• State tribunals and agencies can assist if your landlord does not comply.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arizona Courts - Protective Order Forms and Guidance
• Arizona Department of Housing - Statewide tenant information and forms
• Arizona Justice Courts - File complaints and landlord-tenant matters
• Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act - Full state rental law
• AZLawHelp.org - Free legal aid resources for Arizona residents

---

1. Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 33, Chapter 10: Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. § 33-1318)
2. Sample Domestic Violence Early Lease Termination Notice - Arizona Department of Housing
3. Arizona Justice Courts - Landlord & Tenant Resources

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations