Arkansas Safe Drinking Water Rules for Renters

Access to safe and clean drinking water is essential for all residents, including renters. If you’re renting a home or apartment in Arkansas, understanding your rights regarding water quality, and your landlord’s responsibilities, is crucial for your health and peace of mind. This guide explains in plain language what safe drinking water standards mean for tenants and what you can do if there’s a problem with the water in your rental property.

What Landlords Must Provide: Safe Drinking Water in Arkansas

In Arkansas, landlords are required to provide rental properties that are “fit for habitation.” This includes ensuring that plumbing and fixtures supply water that is safe for drinking, cooking, and bathing, according to Arkansas Department of Health standards and local housing codes.^[1]

• Rental units must have a functioning water supply that delivers potable (drinkable) water.
• Plumbing should not be a source of contamination (for example, lead or bacteria).
• Water supply and plumbing must meet local building and health codes enforced by the Arkansas Department of Health – Engineering Section.

The state relies on the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 to set basic habitable standards for rental homes.^[2] While it does not list specific water quality requirements, it does require properties to be safe and fit for living, making water quality a key part of landlord responsibility.

How to Tell if Your Water Is Safe

Safe drinking water should be clear, have no strange taste or odor, and be free of visible particles. If you have concerns about your tap water, report them to your landlord in writing.

• Look out for discoloration, unpleasant smells, or foul taste.
• If you suspect contamination (e.g., after repairs or floods), ask when the water system was last inspected.
• Private well water should be tested at least once a year; municipal supplies are tested regularly by the Arkansas Department of Health.

What Should I Do If the Water Isn’t Safe?

If you discover or suspect your drinking water is unsafe, you have the right to request prompt repairs and remediation. Here’s what to do:

• Notify your landlord in writing about the issue and request prompt action.
• If the landlord doesn’t respond, you may file a complaint with your local city or county code enforcement office.
• For severe and ongoing water safety issues, contact the Arkansas Department of Health.

Relevant Forms for Renters

• Arkansas Department of Health: Water System Complaint Form
  Use this form to report unsafe or questionable water quality in your rental property if your landlord or local authorities do not act. Available online at Arkansas Water System Complaint Form. Submit it with details of your concern and, if possible, copies of previous communication with your landlord.
• Letter to Landlord Requesting Repairs
  No official Arkansas government form exists, but you should write a dated letter or email clearly describing the water issue and your repair request. Keep a copy for your records.

Both forms should be used as soon as you notice a water quality issue that is not fixed after notifying your landlord within a reasonable timeframe (usually 14 days).

What Legal Protection Do Renters Have?

Arkansas law sets minimum standards for landlord obligations regarding habitability. While Arkansas does not have a formal residential tenancies board, housing complaints (such as lack of safe water) are often managed by the Arkansas Department of Health and your local city code enforcement agency. For serious or unresolved matters, tenants can refer to the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 for legal guidance.^[2]

Summary

Landlords are responsible for providing potable water and maintaining plumbing in rental homes. If something goes wrong, renters have resources and official avenues to ensure a safe living environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are my rights if the drinking water in my rental is unsafe?
   Arkansas law requires landlords to provide safe, potable water. If your water is unsafe, notify your landlord in writing. If repairs aren’t made promptly, file a complaint with local code enforcement or the Arkansas Department of Health.
2. Who do I contact if my landlord does not fix water safety problems?
   You should first contact your landlord, then your local city or county code enforcement office. If problems persist, reach out to the Arkansas Department of Health for direct intervention.
3. Is there an official board or tribunal for tenant complaints in Arkansas?
   Arkansas does not have a state-run residential tenancy tribunal. Health and safety complaints are usually handled by city code enforcement officers or the Arkansas Department of Health.
4. Are landlords responsible for water testing in rentals with private wells?
   Yes, landlords must ensure water safety. For rentals with private wells, landlords should provide annual water test results to show the water is safe for consumption.
5. Where can I find the relevant landlord-tenant laws for Arkansas?
   You can access the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 on the official Arkansas legislature website.

Key Takeaways

• Arkansas landlords must provide safe, drinkable water in rental homes.
• Tenants should report unsafe water to landlords first, then to health authorities if needed.
• The Arkansas Department of Health is the official body for water safety issues.

Ensuring access to safe drinking water is a shared responsibility, with clear steps for renters if problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Department of Health – Water Programs: For reporting water safety concerns and guidance on official forms.
• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act: Access and review current landlord-tenant legal standards.
• Contact your local county code enforcement office for direct assistance with habitability or landlord non-compliance.
• Legal Aid of Arkansas: Offers free legal advice to eligible renters facing housing health and safety issues.

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1. Arkansas Department of Health, Safe Drinking Water Program. See: Public Water System Compliance and Guidance
2. Arkansas Legislature, Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007, Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17-101 et seq.

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