Landlord/Tenant Disputes

Master Account • December 12, 2025

Renting a home or apartment while attending the University of Arkansas can be a great option, but it comes with potential conflicts. Landlord/tenant disputes are common for UA students and can involve lease disagreements, rent disputes, maintenance issues, eviction threats, and Fair Housing concerns.



At Taylor Law Partners, we help students and tenants understand their rights and responsibilities under Arkansas law while navigating disputes with landlords.

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Key Takeaways

Tenant Rights Are Limited Arkansas law gives tenants some protections, but students often have fewer rights than many expect.
Subleasing/Assignment Most leases require landlord approval to sublease or assign the lease. Unauthorized subleasing can lead to eviction.
Tenant Obligations Tenants must pay rent on time, keep the property clean, avoid damage, and comply with lease terms.
Landlord Obligations Landlords must provide a safe, habitable property, make necessary repairs, and follow proper eviction procedures.
Fair housing Act Issues Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin is prohibited.

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Arkansas Landlord/Tenant Law


Key statutes governing landlord/tenant relationships include:

  • Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17-101 et seq. — Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
  • Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17-701 et seq. — Eviction procedures
  • Federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. § 3601 et seq.) — Prohibits discrimination in housing

Limited Rights for Tenants

Arkansas law gives tenants basic protections, but there are limitations:

  • Tenants cannot withhold rent without legal justification.
  • Tenants are responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear.
  • Tenants may have limited ability to break leases without penalty.

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Subleasing and Lease Assignment


  • Subleasing: Most leases require landlord approval. Unauthorized subleasing can lead to eviction.
  • Lease Assignment: Assigning your lease to another party typically requires landlord consent. Landlords can refuse if the assignee does not meet tenant qualifications.
  • Students should always get approval in writing before subleasing or assigning a lease.

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Tenant Obligations


Tenants are responsible for:

  • Paying rent in full and on time
  • Keeping the property clean and undamaged
  • Following lease provisions (noise, occupancy limits, pets, etc.)
  • Reporting maintenance issues promptly
  • Complying with city ordinances and HOA rules, if applicable

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Landlord Obligations


Landlords must:

  • Provide a habitable property (plumbing, heat, water, and safe conditions)
  • Perform repairs in a reasonable timeframe
  • Provide proper notice before entering the property
  • Follow legal eviction procedures strictly
  • Comply with Fair Housing laws

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Fair Housing Considerations


Under the Federal Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot:

  • Refuse to rent or impose different terms based on protected characteristics (race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin)
  • Harass or retaliate against tenants who report discrimination
  • Deny reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities

Students who experience discrimination or retaliation may file complaints with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or consult an attorney.

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Protecting Your Rights as a Tenant


  • Read your lease carefully and keep a copy for reference
  • Document all communications with your landlord in writing
  • Take photos or videos of the property for evidence
  • Notify your landlord promptly of maintenance issues
  • Seek legal guidance before withholding rent, breaking a lease, or disputing a notice

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At Taylor Law Partners, we help UA students resolve landlord/tenant disputes, negotiate leases, respond to eviction notices, and enforce Fair Housing protections.


If you are facing a landlord dispute in Fayetteville or need guidance on your lease, contact Taylor Law Partners for a confidential consultation.

   Call: (479) 316 – 6300
   Office: Taylor Law Partners, 211 E. Dickson Street Ste. 1, Fayetteville, AR 72701
   Website: https://taylorlawpartners.com

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