Demanding Repairs Before You Move In: Arkansas Renters’ Rights

Moving into a new Arkansas rental? It's important that your home is safe and move-in ready. Understanding your rights to request repairs before signing a lease or handing over keys can help you avoid frustration and ensure a healthy living environment. This guide explains how to demand repairs before move-in, what to expect, and where to find official help in Arkansas.

Know Your Right to a Safe and Habitable Rental

Every Arkansas renter deserves a unit that meets basic safety and health standards. While Arkansas is the only U.S. state without a comprehensive implied warranty of habitability, you still have the right to a rental property that's reasonably safe, secure, and complies with specific municipal codes. It's a good idea to clarify repairs up front, as courts may only enforce repair agreements explicitly included in your lease or separate repair addendum.

How to Spot Problems Before Move-In

Before you take possession, inspect the rental thoroughly. Look for:

• Broken doors, locks, or windows
• Plumbing issues (leaks, standing water, lack of hot water)
• Unsafe electrical wiring
• Mold, pest infestations, or unclean spaces
• Heating and cooling system function
• Appliances in working order

Document and Communicate Issues Clearly

Once you find an issue, document it with photos or video. Then, provide a written request for repairs to your landlord or property manager. If possible, mention specific municipal housing codes or required repairs, attaching evidence if available.

Official Forms and Agreements in Arkansas

• Move-In Inspection Checklist (Recommended) – While there is no official statewide form, many Arkansas landlords use a standard Move-In/Move-Out Checklist provided by the Arkansas Department of Labor.
  When and how to use: Complete this checklist with your landlord before moving in to note existing damages. Request that necessary repairs are added to the checklist and have both parties sign it. This helps document agreed repairs and sets clear expectations.
• Repair Agreement or Lease Addendum – If the landlord commits to repairs, request a written agreement or include them as a clause in the lease. For example, "Landlord agrees to replace the bathroom sink faucet before tenant move-in on [date]." Have both parties sign.

There are no required government-issued repair demand forms in Arkansas, but putting all requests in writing is the best way to protect your interests.

What If Your Landlord Refuses Repairs?

If your landlord declines or ignores your repair requests before you move in, you typically have three options:

• Refuse to sign the lease or take possession until repairs are completed
• Negotiate a written agreement for future repairs with clear timelines
• Contact your local city or county code enforcement if the issue violates health or safety codes (Arkansas Department of Health: Inspections & Complaints)

Arkansas does not have a central tenants' board or tribunal, so code complaints are handled at the local city or county level. There are limited state-level enforcement mechanisms, especially before you are an official tenant.

Tip: Never hand over a security deposit or sign a lease until you see needed repairs completed or confirmed in writing.

Citing Arkansas Tenancy Legislation

Arkansas residential tenancies are primarily governed by the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17). However, this law does not require general repairs unless specifically included in the lease or required by local code.

Next Steps: Protect Yourself at Move-In

• Inspect thoroughly before signing anything
• Put all repair requests in writing
• Use a move-in checklist
• Get repair commitments in your lease
• Contact local code enforcement for serious safety/health violations

FAQs for Arkansas Renters

1. Can a landlord refuse to make repairs before I move in?
   Yes, unless repairs are required by city/county code or are promised in writing, Arkansas landlords can refuse repairs. It's best to negotiate before signing.
2. Is there an official Arkansas tenant repair request form?
   No, but you can use the Arkansas Department of Labor’s checklist or write your own letter detailing needed repairs.
3. What happens if repairs are promised but not completed before move-in?
   If repairs are in your lease, you may have legal grounds to delay move-in or terminate. Seek legal advice or contact local code enforcement if unsafe.
4. Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in Arkansas?
   There is no state tribunal. Courts or local code enforcement handle serious disputes.
5. Do I have to pay rent if move-in repairs aren't finished?
   Do not pay or sign until repairs are done or agreed to in writing. Otherwise, you may be responsible for rent even if repairs are incomplete.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act
• Arkansas Department of Health: Housing Complaints and Inspections
• Arkansas Move-In/Move-Out Checklist PDF
• Legal Aid of Arkansas: Free legal help for low-income renters
• Local city or county code enforcement office (search with your city/county officials)

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1. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17)
2. Arkansas Department of Labor Move-In/Move-Out Checklist
3. Arkansas Department of Health: Inspections & Complaints

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