Arkansas Lease Disclosure Rules: What Renters Need to Know

If you are renting a house or apartment in Arkansas, it's important to understand what information your landlord is legally required to disclose in your residential lease. These required disclosures are designed to inform you about essential property conditions and your legal protections as a renter. Knowing what your lease should include can help you avoid surprises and ensure your rental is safe and compliant with Arkansas law.

What Disclosures Are Required in Arkansas Residential Leases?

Arkansas has fewer mandatory rental disclosures than many other states, but there are essential requirements that both landlords and renters should know. These protect your right to information and transparency before you sign a lease agreement.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

If the rental property was built before 1978, landlords must provide you with certain information about potential lead hazards.

• Form Name: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (no official Arkansas-specific form number, uses the EPA/CPSC/HUD disclosure form)
• When Used: Before signing a lease for any property built before 1978
• How Used: The landlord (or their agent) must give you a completed disclosure form and the EPA booklet, “Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home” before you commit to renting. This form confirms that you have received the necessary information and warnings about potential lead paint hazards.

Identity and Contact Information of Owner/Manager

Arkansas law requires that landlords disclose the names and addresses of the property owner and any person authorized to act on their behalf (such as a property manager).

• You should find this information in your lease agreement itself.
• If you need to send official notices, this is the contact to use.

Act 714: Security Deposit Rules

While Arkansas does not have a mandatory written disclosure form for security deposits, landlords who collect a deposit must follow the rules in the law, including providing a receipt and returning the deposit after you move out—minus any lawful deductions.
You can read more about these rules under Arkansas Act 714 (Security Deposits).

Flood Zone Disclosure (Optional, but Recommended)

Arkansas does not require landlords to disclose flood zone information, but it's a good practice to ask if the property is in a special flood hazard area. Some local city codes or mortgage requirements may require disclosures at the municipal level.

What Is NOT Required to Be Disclosed in Arkansas?

Unlike many states, Arkansas law does not require landlords to inform renters about the following (unless specified by local ordinance):

• Mold or water damage
• Known sex offender registry information
• Past pesticide use
• Any known deaths in the rental unit

Always double-check with your local city or county for any added local requirements.

Which Arkansas Agency Handles Rental Disputes?

Arkansas does not have a statewide landlord-tenant tribunal or housing board. Court cases and disputes go through the Arkansas District Courts. If you have a problem with disclosure, security deposits, or your lease, this is where disputes are usually filed.

What Official Legislation Covers Lease Disclosures?

Rental rights and disclosure requirements are covered in sections of the Arkansas Code Title 18, Chapter 16 (Landlord and Tenant). For security deposits specifically, refer to Act 714.¹

Steps to Check for Proper Lease Disclosures in Arkansas

Making sure your lease has required disclosures is a key step toward an informed and successful rental experience.

• Before signing, ask your landlord or manager to provide all required documents, especially the lead-based paint disclosure if the home was built before 1978.
• Read through your lease carefully and ensure it lists the owner/manager’s name and contact address.
• Keep copies of all disclosure forms along with your signed lease.
• If anything is missing or unclear, ask for clarification in writing.

FAQ: Arkansas Lease Disclosure Questions

1. What information does my Arkansas landlord have to give me?
   Landlords must provide you with a lead-based paint disclosure if the property was built before 1978 and must disclose the names and addresses of property owners or managers involved with your lease.
2. Do Arkansas landlords have to tell me about mold or pest issues?
   No, Arkansas law does not require landlords to disclose mold, pest, or previous water damage before you rent, unless a local ordinance requires it.
3. Is flood risk disclosure required in Arkansas residential leases?
   No, there is no statewide requirement for landlords to disclose flood zone status in Arkansas, but you may want to check local regulations or ask the landlord directly.
4. Who do I contact if I think my landlord skipped required disclosures?
   If your landlord does not provide mandatory state or federal disclosures, you can raise the issue in Arkansas District Court or contact a local tenant advocacy organization.
5. Is there an official government form for Arkansas security deposit disclosures?
   There is no official Arkansas security deposit disclosure form. However, you can review security deposit rules and requirements under Act 714.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters

• Lead-based paint disclosure is required for older properties (built before 1978).
• Landlord contact and management details must be stated in the lease.
• Check your lease and obtain all forms before signing to stay informed and protected.

Understanding these disclosure rules can help you ask the right questions and avoid issues during your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Code on Landlord-Tenant Law – Search official state laws
• EPA: Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home – Official guide to lead safety and disclosures
• Arkansas District Courts – Where to go if you need to file a rental dispute
• Reach out to local tenant associations or city government housing offices for additional support on lease issues

---

1. Arkansas Code Title 18, Chapter 16 – Landlord and Tenant
2. EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
3. Arkansas Act 714 (Security Deposits)
4. Arkansas District Courts – For Housing Disputes

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