Arkansas Landlord-Tenant Law at a Glance
Arkansas only created a statewide habitability standard in 2021, and it remains one of the most landlord-friendly states. Deposits are capped at two months’ rent — but small landlords with five or fewer units are exempt unless a third party manages them (Ark. Code § 18-16-304).
How Long Does a Landlord Have to Return a Security Deposit in Arkansas?
An Arkansas landlord has 60 days after the tenancy ends to return the deposit or send an itemized list of damages.
| Maximum Deposit | Two months’ rent (landlords with 5 or fewer self-managed units exempt) |
| Return Deadline | 60 days |
| Interest Required | No |
| Itemized Statement | Required |
| Statute Reference | Ark. Code §§ 18-16-304, 18-16-305 |
How Much Can a Landlord Raise Rent in Arkansas?
Arkansas has no rent control and no statutory limit on increases; the lease governs how and when rent can change.
| Grace Period | None set by statute |
| Late Fee Limit | No statutory cap |
| Rent Control Status | No statewide rent control |
| Statute Reference | Ark. Code Title 18, Chapter 17 |
How to Evict a Tenant in Arkansas
An Arkansas unlawful detainer for unpaid rent starts with a 3-day written notice to vacate before the case is filed.
| Non-Payment Notice | 3 days to vacate |
| Lease Violation Notice | 14 days to cure |
| Statute Reference | Ark. Code §§ 18-60-304, 18-17-701 |
Can a Landlord Enter Without Permission in Arkansas?
Arkansas law sets no advance-notice period; a landlord may enter at reasonable times for inspection, repairs and showings.
| Notice Required | No statutory notice period |
| Emergency Entry | Allowed |
| Permitted Reasons | Inspect, repairs, show to buyers or tenants |
| Statute Reference | Ark. Code § 18-17-602 |
What Must a Arkansas Lease Disclose?
- Lead-based paint disclosure (pre-1978 housing)
- Name and address of the landlord or agent for notices
What Repairs Is a Landlord Responsible For in Arkansas?
Since the 2021 Arkansas Healthy Homes Act, landlords must provide basic habitability: sanitary facilities, running water, electricity, heat and a sound roof and structure.
What Arkansas landlords must maintain
- • Provide working sanitary facilities and running water, including hot water
- • Provide working electricity and heating
- • Keep the roof and structure reasonably weathertight and safe
What a Arkansas tenant can do
- • Written notice to the landlord of the defect
- • The landlord has 30 days to cure; the tenant’s sole remedy is to terminate the lease and recover the deposit — Arkansas provides no rent withholding or repair-and-deduct
| Repair & Deduct | Not provided by Arkansas statute |
| Statute Reference | Ark. Code § 18-17-502 (Arkansas Healthy Homes / Act 1052 of 2021) |