Arkansas Renters: How to Handle Pest Problems Legally

If you’re renting in Arkansas and struggling with pests such as bed bugs, cockroaches, or rodents, it’s important to know your legal rights and responsibilities. Understanding what your landlord must do—and what you can do if they don't—empowers you to address health and safety issues quickly and effectively.

Understanding Health & Safety Standards for Pests in Arkansas Rentals

In Arkansas, safety and habitability rules for rental properties are guided by state law. Pest infestations can threaten health and safety, potentially violating those standards. However, Arkansas has unique laws regarding landlord-tenant responsibilities for repairs and pest control, so knowing what applies to your situation is key.

Who Is Responsible for Pest Control?

Unlike in many states, Arkansas state law does not explicitly require landlords to keep rental properties free of pests. Your specific responsibilities depend on your lease agreement. Most leases specify whether pest control is covered by the landlord or tenant. Still, landlords generally must provide a habitable dwelling, especially if the pest issue makes the unit unsafe for occupancy.^[1]

• Check your lease. It should state who is responsible for pest extermination and routine pest control.
• If pests are present due to landlord’s failure to maintain the property (e.g., holes, leaks, or unsanitary conditions), you may have more recourse.
• For multi-family housing or HUD-assisted rentals, federal health standards may apply.

If you aren’t sure, contact the Arkansas Department of Health Environmental Health Branch or seek legal guidance.

Document and Report the Problem

Before taking action, thoroughly document the infestation. Take clear dated photos or videos of the affected areas and keep a record of pest sightings or bites. Next, provide written notice to your landlord or property manager. Arkansas does not provide a statewide official form, but a standard "Repair Request/Notice to Landlord" is often used.

• Form Name: Repair Request/Notice to Landlord
• Use: Send a dated written request outlining the pest problems and requested remediation (e.g., extermination, repair of entry points).
• Practical Example: Jane, a tenant, discovers cockroaches in her kitchen. She takes photos and mails a written repair request to her landlord describing the issue and any health impacts she has experienced.
• Sample Repair Request/Notice to Landlord (PDF)

What If the Landlord Does Not Respond?

If your landlord does not address your concerns, you have several options—but Arkansas law limits a tenant’s remedies compared to other states. Unlike elsewhere, you may not be allowed to withhold rent or pay for repairs and deduct from your rent without legal risk.

• Contact your local Environmental Health Office to file a code or public health complaint. They may inspect and issue corrective orders to address unsafe conditions.
• For health emergencies or unresolved code violations, reach out to the Arkansas Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program or consult legal aid.

Arkansas’s main agency handling landlord-tenant disputes is Arkansas Judiciary, primarily through the local district courts, as there is no dedicated tribunal or board for housing issues.

Steps to Take if Your Health Is at Risk

If pest infestations are affecting your health, take these actions:

• Keep detailed records of notices and actions taken
• Consider seeking help from Arkansas Legal Services or local tenant advocacy groups
• If you fear eviction for reporting, document all interactions and contact legal aid immediately

Relevant Arkansas Legislation

The essential rules for Arkansas renters are in the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (AR Code § 18-17-601) and related health department codes. The law requires landlords to keep rented units in a reasonable state of repair, but specifics vary. Check your local city or county ordinances for additional protections.

FAQ: Pest Infestations and Renter Rights in Arkansas

1. Who is responsible for getting rid of pests in an Arkansas rental?
   Typically, your lease agreement outlines who is responsible. If the pests are caused by building defects or landlord neglect, the landlord may be responsible, but review your lease and seek guidance.
2. Can I withhold rent if my landlord refuses to treat a pest problem?
   No. Under Arkansas law, withholding rent can put you at risk for eviction—even if you have a valid complaint. Always follow legal notice procedures and seek assistance from legal aid if needed.
3. Is there an official Arkansas form I should use to report pest infestations?
   There’s no statewide official pest complaint form, but you should send a written repair request to your landlord. See the Repair Request/Notice to Landlord template.
4. What should I do if pests are making me or my family sick?
   Document the problem, seek medical attention if needed, and contact your local environmental health department. Legal aid can also help if there are health impacts.
5. How do I find out if my city has extra renter protections or pest control ordinances?
   Check your local city or county government website or contact their housing department for information on additional renter protections regarding pest control.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Department of Health - Environmental Health: Report public health and pest problems.
• Arkansas Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Program: General tenant rights guidance.
• Arkansas Legal Services: Free legal help for low-income renters.
• Arkansas Judiciary: Handles formal disputes via district court if other measures fail.
• For lease review or mediation, try local city or county housing offices.

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1. See Arkansas Code § 18-17-601 – Landlord's Obligations
2. Arkansas Department of Health – Environmental Health
3. Arkansas Repair Request/Notice to Landlord Template (PDF)
4. Arkansas Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Resource
5. Arkansas Legal Services

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