Arkansas has no rent control. The state's landlord-tenant law is among the most landlord-friendly in the country — there's no statutory warranty of habitability and few repair remedies. If you're renting in Arkansas, knowing your lease terms and local housing codes matters more than in most states.
Arkansas at a Glance
Rent control: None
Statewide rent cap: None — landlords can raise rent by any amount
Preemption: Arkansas has no rent control law and no city has enacted one. Arkansas's landlord-tenant law is less tenant-protective than most states — there is no implied warranty of habitability in statute.
What Protections Arkansas Tenants Do Have
Even without rent control, Arkansas law gives renters meaningful rights in these areas:
Security Deposit
Landlords must return your deposit within 30 days of move-out with an itemized statement of deductions. Failure to do so entitles you to double the amount wrongfully withheld (Ark. Code § 18-16-305).
Notice to Terminate
Month-to-month tenancies require at least one full rental period of written notice to terminate from either party (Ark. Code § 18-16-101).
Habitability
Arkansas has no statutory implied warranty of habitability for residential rentals. Your rights depend heavily on what your lease says and whether your city has a housing code. If your city has code enforcement, filing a complaint is often the most effective tool.
Eviction Process
Landlords must go through the court unlawful detainer process to remove a tenant. Self-help eviction — changing locks or removing belongings without a court order — is prohibited.
Retaliation
Arkansas has limited statutory retaliation protections. Document all communications with your landlord in writing and keep copies of repair requests, especially if you contact city code enforcement.