Landlord and Tenant - Mobile Home Parks

questions & answers

Question: There is a gas leak between my meter & my mobile home. The park said it is my responsibility to fix it. I only rent the space. Shouldn't the utilities outside my home be the responsibility of the park?

Answer: So long as the terms and conditions of a rental agreement are consistent with Arizona law, including the Arizona Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. Title 33 Chapter 11), then whatever the rental agreement says will determine each party’s rights and responsibilities. If the rental agreement states that the mobile home park landlord will provide utilities, including gas, to the mobile home, then the landlord very likely is responsible for making whatever repairs are required to ensure that gas service continues. However, if gas (and/or the source of the leak) is not specifically mentioned in the rental agreement, then the only guiding rule is A.R.S. 33-1434, which requires the landlord to “maintain fit premises,” including (among other things) by: complying with the requirements of all applicable city, county and state codes materially affecting health and safety; making all repairs and doing whatever is necessary to put and keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition; and maintaining “in good and safe working order and condition all swimming pool, shower, bathhouse, electrical, plumbing and sanitary facilities...” You could always discuss the situation with the gas utility company too.