Arizona Eviction Law at a Glance
State Statute
Ariz. Rev. Stat. §33-1368 — Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Notice Periods
- Nonpayment: 5-Day Pay or Quit
- Lease violation: 10-Day Cure or Quit
- Unconditional: 10-Day Unconditional Quit (Immediate Danger)
- End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate
Available Defenses
- Habitability (Ariz. Rev. Stat. §33-1324)
- Retaliation (Ariz. Rev. Stat. §33-1381)
- Procedural defects
- Partial payment waiver
- Discrimination (Fair Housing Act)
Right to Cure
YES — Tenant has 5 days to pay past-due rent; 10 days to cure lease violations (first occurrence)
Self-Help Eviction
PROHIBITED — Landlord must use court process (Ariz. Rev. Stat. §33-1367)
Court & Filing
Justice Court or Superior Court
Landlord must file special detainer action in justice court (or superior court if damages exceed limit)
Complaints: Arizona Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
Additional Protections
- Landlord must provide written notice specifying the grounds for eviction
- Self-help eviction is illegal — lockouts and utility shutoffs prohibited
- Acceptance of rent after notice may waive eviction
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Arizona Eviction Response FAQ
How many days do I have to respond to an eviction notice in Arizona?
In Arizona, the response deadline depends on the type of eviction notice: Nonpayment: 5-Day Pay or Quit; Lease violation: 10-Day Cure or Quit; Unconditional: 10-Day Unconditional Quit (Immediate Danger); End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate. Missing your deadline can result in a default judgment and forced move-out.
What defenses can I raise against eviction in Arizona?
Available defenses in Arizona include: Habitability (Ariz. Rev. Stat. §33-1324), Retaliation (Ariz. Rev. Stat. §33-1381), Procedural defects, Partial payment waiver, Discrimination (Fair Housing Act). The availability depends on your specific circumstances.
Does Arizona require landlords to give tenants a right to cure?
Yes. Tenant has 5 days to pay past-due rent; 10 days to cure lease violations (first occurrence)
Can my landlord evict me without going to court in Arizona?
No. Under Ariz. Rev. Stat. §33-1367, self-help eviction is prohibited in Arizona. Your landlord must file in Justice Court or Superior Court and obtain a judgment.
What should I include in an eviction response letter in Arizona?
Your letter should: (1) identify the notice by date and type, (2) cite Ariz. Rev. Stat. §33-1368, (3) assert applicable defenses, (4) demand proper legal procedure, (5) state your intent to defend in court, and (6) be sent via certified mail.
Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in Arizona?
File complaints with the Arizona Attorney General Consumer Protection Division and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For illegal self-help eviction, contact local law enforcement.
Eviction Response Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.