Required Elements in an Arkansas Lease Agreement

Understanding what must be included in a lease agreement is essential for Arkansas renters. A written lease doesn’t just outline your rights and responsibilities—it’s also your first line of protection if disputes arise about rent, repairs, or evictions. By knowing these legal basics under Arkansas law, you’ll feel more confident before signing or renewing any rental contract.

What Information Must Be in an Arkansas Lease Agreement?

Under the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act ^[1], a lease agreement must contain certain key pieces of information to be legally enforceable and to protect both renters and landlords. These required elements help ensure there are no misunderstandings during the rental period.

Mandatory Lease Elements

• Names and Contact Information: All adult tenants and the landlord (or landlord’s agent) must be clearly named. Contact addresses or details should also appear.
• Rental Property Description: The street address and unit number of the rental must be listed for clarity.
• Lease Term: The agreement should state the duration—whether it’s a month-to-month or for a fixed term (like 12 months).
• Rent Amount and Due Date: Specify the monthly rent, when it’s due, and acceptable payment methods.
• Security Deposit Amount: If required, the lease should describe how much deposit is collected and any deposit conditions under Arkansas law.
• Maintenance Responsibilities: Who is responsible for which repairs and maintenance, including who to contact for emergencies.
• Occupancy Limits: Number of people allowed to live in the unit.
• Notice Requirements: How much notice is needed to end or renew the lease.
• Signatures: All adult tenants and the landlord (or property manager) must sign and date the agreement.

Most leases also include rules on pets, parking, and guest restrictions, but these are negotiable and not required by statute.

Forms Renters Should Know in Arkansas

• Arkansas Notice to Vacate (Form not numbered):
  • When Used: If either the tenant or landlord wants to end a month-to-month tenancy or, in some cases, for nonpayment, they can use a written Notice to Vacate.
  • How It Works: Serve written notice according to the timeline in your lease or the minimums required by state law (a landlord generally must provide at least 3 days for nonpayment of rent).
  • View sample Notice to Vacate in the Arkansas Landlord-Tenant Handbook
• Security Deposit Return Form (May be a simple letter):
  • When Used: After moving out, tenants should provide their forwarding address to request the return of their security deposit.
  • How It Works: Send a written request to your landlord for your deposit if it’s not received within 60 days of moving out.
  • Instructions for requesting a deposit in the official Handbook

For more sample forms and rights, check the Arkansas Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Handbook.

Tips for Arkansas Renters Reviewing a Lease

• Never sign a lease that has blank spaces.
• Ask questions if you don’t understand a section, especially about repairs or entry rights.
• Keep a signed copy for your records.
• Confirm that all agreed-upon changes are added in writing, not just verbally.

What Happens If a Lease Doesn’t Meet Arkansas Legal Requirements?

Leases missing required elements may be more difficult to enforce, and renters could face challenges if disputes arise. It’s extremely important to use written, state-compliant forms. If in doubt, consult official sources or request clarification from the Arkansas Judiciary, which handles landlord-tenant civil matters.

Where Tenancy Disputes Are Handled

Most residential tenancy disputes in Arkansas are handled in the local District Court (Arkansas Judiciary) for your area. These courts can rule on issues like unpaid rent, eviction, or security deposit disagreements.

FAQ: Arkansas Lease Agreements

1. What if my landlord doesn’t provide a written lease?
   While verbal agreements are sometimes legal for month-to-month rentals, it is strongly recommended to always have a written lease for your protection. Oral leases are harder to prove and may not cover important topics.
2. How much advance notice does my landlord need to give before raising rent?
   Unless otherwise stated in your lease, landlords must provide at least one full rental period (usually 30 days) of written notice before increasing rent.
3. Are there legal limits to security deposits in Arkansas?
   Yes. For landlords who own six or more units, Arkansas law limits the security deposit to two months’ rent. Smaller landlords are not restricted by state law.
4. What if the landlord enters without permission?
   If your lease does not set rules for landlord entry, Arkansas does not have a general law mandating notice. Clarify entry terms in your lease and document any incidents for your records.
5. Can a lease require tenants to handle all repairs?
   Some maintenance may be renter’s responsibility, but the landlord must keep the unit in habitable condition as required by law and city code.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Always review an Arkansas lease agreement for required information before signing.
• Request and retain copies of all notices, forms, and any changes in writing.
• Contact local courts or the Arkansas Attorney General for support with disputes.

Knowing these basics helps protect your rights and ensures a smoother renting experience in Arkansas.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Arkansas Judiciary – Find Your Local District Court
• Arkansas Legal Services – Free legal information and tenant support
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Arkansas Rental Housing Rights

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1. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007, see full text (Act 1052, 2021)
2. Arkansas Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Handbook – Rental Forms & Rights
3. Arkansas Judiciary – Civil and Tenancy Information

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