questions & answers

Question: Our lease has no provision in regarding pest control and landlord being able to charge for pest control services if infestation is found. Our landlord is trying to do this to residents who are mostly SMI or disabled who only means is a monthly check and being on sec 8 or home inc. They don't understand they have rights and are afraid of being evicted as this is what they've been told. I know Residents whohave requested pest service and not received due to not being put on list for service and apts that have bug problems or infestations are being rented then tenants blamed for. What can we do

Answer: A tenant cannot be compelled to agree to pay a new fee until the current rental agreement has expired, so a landlord may only start charging a fee that was not included in the rental agreement after the agreement has come up for renewal and the tenant has chosen to accept the new fee by renewing the lease. As for bug infestations, a landlord has a legal obligation to “make all repairs and do whatever is necessary to put and keep the premises in a fit and habitable condition” (A.R.S. 33-1324). Especially given that multiple residents are experiencing the very same problem, you may wish to speak with an attorney. There are links to organizations offering free or low-cost legal services on this website. A lawyer can discuss the specifics of the situation with you and provide you with legal advice about what you can do.