Arkansas Landlord Disclosures: What Renters Must Know Before Move-In

Before you sign a lease and move into a rental in Arkansas, it’s important to understand what information your landlord is legally required to provide. These requirements, known as “landlord disclosures,” ensure renters know about critical property details or special laws that affect their tenancy. Being informed protects your rights and helps set expectations for both you and your landlord.

What Disclosures Must Arkansas Landlords Provide Before Move-In?

Arkansas state law requires landlords to make certain facts or documents available to renters before or at the start of the tenancy. However, compared to many other states, Arkansas has limited mandatory disclosure obligations for private residential landlords. Here’s what you should expect and what’s good to ask for as a renter:

1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Federal Requirement)

For homes or apartments built before 1978, federal law requires landlords to:

• Provide an official Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form
• Distribute the EPA pamphlet: Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home

Form name: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
When it’s used: The landlord must provide this before entering into a lease for any pre-1978 property. As a renter, always look for this form and the pamphlet if the building is older.
Where to get it: Download directly from the EPA’s official Lead Disclosure page.

2. Owner or Agent Identification

Landlords must usually disclose in writing the name and address of:

• The property owner
• The person authorized to manage the property or accept legal notices

This disclosure helps renters know who to contact for repairs or important communications. Typically, this information is included in the written lease agreement.

3. Security Deposit Rules (If Applicable)

While Arkansas law doesn’t require a specific disclosure form, it does set out guidelines for how security deposits are handled if your landlord owns six or more properties. Renters should review:

• Amount collected as a security deposit
• When and how it will be returned
• Reasons withheld (must be explained after move-out)

Consider asking for this information in writing before you sign your lease.

4. Other Recommended Disclosures

There are no statewide Arkansas requirements covering issues like mold, flood history, bed bugs, or utility responsibilities. However, these topics may be included in your lease or negotiated with your landlord. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to request clarification.

Tip: Even if not required by Arkansas law, asking for all communications and rules in writing will help protect your interests as a renter.

Inspection and Move-In Checklist

Arkansas does not require landlords to provide an official move-in inspection checklist. However, it’s strongly recommended that both landlord and renter document the condition of the property together at move-in and move-out. This can help resolve disputes about damages and security deposit refunds later.

• Take photographs or videos of each room
• Write down any existing damage
• Have both parties sign and date any checklist or notes

Key Legislation and Where to Go for Help

Arkansas rental laws are governed by the Arkansas Code Title 18 – Property, Subtitle 2, Chapter 17, Subchapter 5: “Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007.”

No specialized housing tribunal exists in Arkansas. Most landlord-tenant disputes are handled by the local District or Circuit Court. You can find official court information via the Arkansas Judiciary—District Courts site.

What If My Landlord Doesn’t Disclose Required Information?

If you do not receive the required disclosures (especially about lead-based paint in older properties), you should:

• Request the missing disclosure in writing and keep a copy
• Contact the Arkansas Department of Health—Environmental Health (for lead issues)
• Consider seeking legal advice or assistance from a local tenant group or the Arkansas Attorney General—Consumer Protection Division

More details are in the FAQ below.

FAQ: Arkansas Renters & Landlord Disclosures

1. What is the most important required disclosure for Arkansas renters?
   The federal Lead-Based Paint Disclosure is required for almost all rentals built before 1978. This lets renters know potential risks before moving in.
2. Are landlords required to disclose flood, mold, or bed bug issues in Arkansas?
   No, Arkansas law does not currently mandate disclosure of these issues. However, you can negotiate for this information as a condition of your lease.
3. Does my landlord have to provide a move-in inspection form or checklist?
   No, not by state law. It’s a good best practice to create your own, take photos, and have both parties sign.
4. Where do tenants go for landlord-tenant disputes in Arkansas?
   Disputes are resolved through your local District or Circuit Court. Find more information at the Arkansas Judiciary—District Courts site.
5. How do I report missing or incorrect disclosures about lead?
   Contact the Arkansas Department of Health—Environmental Health, or the national EPA. You may also submit a complaint through the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

What Arkansas Renters Should Remember Before Signing a Lease

• Key disclosure requirements are limited, but federal law still covers important topics like lead-based paint.
• Ask for written information whenever possible and review your lease thoroughly.
• Know how and where to get help if you feel your rights are being overlooked.

Staying informed will help you move in with confidence and avoid future disputes over disclosures or property condition.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Arkansas

• Arkansas Attorney General—Consumer Protection: Help with landlord-tenant complaints
• Arkansas Department of Health—Environmental Health: Lead, mold, and environmental questions
• Arkansas District Courts: Find your local court for rental disputes
• HUD—Arkansas Tenant Rights: Federal resources for renters

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1. Federal Lead Disclosure Requirements: EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule
2. Arkansas Landlord-Tenant Legislation: Arkansas Code Title 18, Property Laws
3. Arkansas District Court Info: Official Arkansas District Courts
4. Arkansas Attorney General: Consumer Protection Division

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