Arkansas Tenant DIY Repairs: What You Can and Cannot Do

If you rent in Arkansas, knowing what repairs you can make yourself—and which require your landlord’s involvement—can save you money, avoid conflicts, and keep you protected under state law. This guide explains Arkansas tenants’ rights and responsibilities around do-it-yourself repairs, when landlord approval is mandatory, and how to handle repair requests safely.

Understanding Tenant Repair Rights in Arkansas

Arkansas law does not provide as many protections for renters as in some other states, but it does set basic expectations for rental property maintenance. By law, your landlord is usually responsible for essential repairs and providing a habitable home, except for issues caused by tenant negligence.^[1]

As a tenant, you are expected to keep your unit reasonably clean and avoid property damage. However, your ability to fix problems yourself—especially anything structural, electrical, or plumbing—has limits.

Tenant DIY Repairs: What’s Allowed?

Some basic, non-structural repairs and maintenance tasks may be handled by tenants. These typically include minor tasks that do not change the property or risk safety problems:

• Changing light bulbs or batteries in smoke detectors
• Unclogging sinks or toilets (with household tools, not by dismantling plumbing)
• Replacing air filters, if accessible and permitted in your lease
• BASIC cleaning and upkeep

Repairs That Require Landlord Approval

Any repair or alteration that affects the structure, plumbing, electrical work, appliances owned by the landlord, or major safety systems requires landlord permission. Examples include:

• Replacing windows or locks
• Fixing leaky plumbing beneath sinks or in walls
• Installing new appliances or fixtures
• Painting or making holes in walls
• Electrical repairs

Making major repairs or unauthorized alterations can violate your lease and make you financially responsible for damage or restoration.

How To Request Repairs From Your Landlord

Under Arkansas law, tenants must inform their landlord of repair needs—preferably in writing—to start the repair process. Your rental agreement may specify reporting methods. While Arkansas does not require landlords to use specific government forms, sending a formal letter or email is strongly recommended for proof.

Forms and Official Processes

• Written Repair Request Letter: Though not an official state form, a written notice documents your request and protects your rights. Clearly describe the problem, include dates, and keep a copy.

If your landlord does not respond, you may contact your city or county code enforcement office. These local agencies enforce housing standards but Arkansas has no state-level residential tenancies tribunal. The Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 sets the main legal framework.^[2]

Actions Not Allowed for Tenants

Arkansas renters are not permitted to:

• Withhold rent for unfinished repairs (unless authorized by a court)
• Deduct repair costs from future rent (unless lease allows or court order is obtained)
• Make repairs that violate building codes or safety rules
• Change locks without landlord approval—except for documented domestic abuse situations^[3]

For safety and legal reasons, always get landlord approval for any non-routine repairs or alterations.

What To Do If Your Landlord Won’t Make Repairs

If you’ve reported a repair using written notice and your landlord fails to act:

• Contact your local city or county code enforcement office for an inspection.
• If the issue violates health or safety laws, officials may order the landlord to fix the problem.
• Retain copies of all correspondence and photos of the repair issue.
• Reach out for renters’ legal assistance if conditions become hazardous.

FAQ: Arkansas Tenant DIY Repairs

1. Can I fix a leaky faucet or broken appliance myself?
   If the appliance belongs to the landlord or if the repair involves plumbing, always notify your landlord first and get written permission.
2. Am I allowed to paint or make holes in the wall to hang shelves?
   Most leases require written landlord approval for painting or structural changes; always check your rental agreement.
3. What should I do if my landlord won’t respond to my repair request?
   Send a second written request, document the issue, and contact your local code enforcement office if needed.
4. Can I withhold rent until repairs are made?
   No. Arkansas law does not allow rent withholding for unfinished repairs unless a court has authorized it.
5. Is there a state agency or board for Arkansas tenant repair disputes?
   No single tribunal exists; renters may seek help from local code enforcement and review the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act for guidance.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants may make minor, non-structural repairs but always check your lease and notify your landlord first.
• Major repairs, changes to property, or anything involving health and safety require landlord permission.
• If repairs go unaddressed, contact your local code enforcement and keep thorough records.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 – Read the state law in full
• Arkansas Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Resources
• To report unhealthy or unsafe conditions, contact your local code enforcement or Environmental Health office
• Legal aid: Legal Aid of Arkansas

---

1. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007
2. Official State Legislation – Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act
3. Arkansas Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Rights

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