Arkansas Lease Renewal Rights: Can a Landlord Refuse?

When your lease is ending in Arkansas, you may wonder if your landlord can simply refuse to renew your rental agreement—even if you pay rent on time and follow all the rules. Understanding your rights, the notice required, and key legislation can help you navigate this situation with confidence and clarity.

Understanding Lease Renewal in Arkansas

In Arkansas, rental agreements can be either fixed-term (for a set length, such as 12 months) or periodic (month-to-month, week-to-week). When your lease term ends, your landlord is not legally required to renew it, except in specific cases where federal or local laws apply.

When Can a Landlord Refuse to Renew a Lease?

• No-Cause Refusal: In most cases, landlords can refuse to renew a lease without giving a reason, as long as it’s not for a discriminatory or retaliatory purpose.
• Illegal Reasons: Landlords cannot deny renewal because of your race, color, religion, sex, disability, national origin, or family status (protected under the federal Fair Housing Act). Retaliation—such as refusing to renew your lease after you exercise a legal right (like requesting repairs)—is also prohibited under Arkansas law.

If your landlord decides not to renew, specific notice periods and procedures must be followed based on the type of lease you have.

Notice Requirements for Non-Renewal

By Arkansas statute, proper notice must be given to end a lease:

• Fixed Term Lease: No automatic notice required unless specified in your lease agreement. If neither you nor your landlord takes action, the lease generally ends on its expiration date.
• Month-to-Month Lease: 30 days’ written notice is required from either party (landlord or tenant) to terminate or not renew, per Arkansas Code § 18-17-704. Review the official statute here.
• Week-to-Week Lease: 7 days’ written notice is required.

Notice should be provided in writing and delivered according to the terms in your lease or Arkansas law.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

• Arkansas Notice of Non-Renewal of Lease
  Official Form (no number; use written statement)
  Tenants or landlords can provide a written notice (no official form required by the state). The notice should state the intent not to renew, the effective date, and be delivered at least 30 days (for month-to-month) before the desired end date. For example, if your rental period ends July 31, your notice should be given by July 1.
  For sample templates and instructions, see the Arkansas Legal Services renter guide.

If you receive a non-renewal notice and believe it is discriminatory or retaliatory, you can seek assistance from the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office.

Discrimination and Retaliation Protections

While landlords generally have broad rights to refuse renewal, they cannot do so for illegal reasons:

• Fair Housing Act: Prohibits refusal to rent or renew based on protected characteristics. Learn more from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
• Retaliation: Arkansas Statutory Residential Landlord-Tenant Act bans retaliation for asserting legal tenant rights (see full law here).

What to Do if Your Lease Is Not Renewed

If your landlord gives notice or simply doesn't offer a new lease:

• Confirm notice was properly delivered in writing and with correct timing.
• Check your lease for any special renewal terms.
• Prepare to move out by the date stated in the notice.
• Return all keys and request a move-out inspection.
• Request your security deposit in writing after your lease ends.

Which Agency Handles Lease Disputes in Arkansas?

Arkansas does not have a dedicated state rental housing tribunal. Instead, disputes about lease renewal, notice, or discrimination can be raised with:

• Arkansas Attorney General’s Office - Landlord/Tenant for consumer support
• Local courts (for legal action or hearings related to unlawful eviction or retaliation)

Always keep written records of your communications and notices.

FAQ: Arkansas Lease Non-Renewal and Your Rights

1. Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease without a reason?
   Yes, unless the refusal is for a discriminatory or retaliatory reason. Landlords in Arkansas can end most leases at expiration without cause.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give if not renewing?
   For month-to-month leases, landlords must give 30 days’ written notice before the next rental period ends. Fixed-term leases usually end automatically at the agreed date.
3. What if I think my landlord’s decision is discrimination?
   Contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office or HUD Fair Housing office for help. Document all interactions and file a complaint if needed.
4. Can my landlord raise the rent instead of refusing renewal?
   Yes, but only with proper notice (typically 30 days) and if there are no rent control laws limiting the increase. The landlord must follow the procedures in your current lease.
5. Do I get my security deposit back if my lease isn’t renewed?
   Yes, if you leave the unit in good condition and have no outstanding rent or damages. Arkansas law requires landlords to return the deposit within 60 days after you move out.

Key Takeaways

• Arkansas landlords are not obligated to renew leases, but they must follow notice rules and fair housing laws.
• Written notices are vital—always keep copies for your records.
• Help is available if you believe non-renewal is illegal or retaliatory.

Knowing these essentials helps Arkansas renters plan ahead and protect their rights at lease end.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Attorney General’s Office: Landlord-Tenant Resources – For complaints, notices, and basic rights guidance.
• Arkansas Legal Services: Landlord-Tenant Law – Educational materials and sample notice templates.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity

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1. Arkansas Statutory Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 (§ 18-17-101 et seq.). See Arkansas Code Official PDF.
2. Fair Housing Act – Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968. See HUD Fair Housing Overview.
3. Arkansas Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Resources. See official website.

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