Bill > HB2243

This bill, amending the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, establishes new rules for landlords regarding rental application fees. Before accepting a fee or screening information, landlords must provide prospective tenants with written disclosure about the fee's amount and purpose, detailing anticipated or actual expenses, the types of tenant screening information to be accessed and from whom, and any specific criteria that would automatically deny an application. Landlords are prohibited from charging a fee if they don't intend to use the full amount for actual expenses, if the fee differs for similar rental units, or if the unit is unavailable. Furthermore, landlords must provide a receipt for the fee and refund any amount exceeding actual processing expenses within fourteen days. They are also required to conduct an individualized assessment of applicants based on uniform screening criteria rather than solely relying on an application review. Violating these provisions makes landlords liable for triple damages, court costs, and attorney fees, without precluding other legal remedies. A "rental application fee" is defined as any money charged or accepted from a prospective tenant for processing their application, including background checks or credit screenings, but excludes refundable security deposits or rent paid before tenancy begins.

Business and Industry

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83964