Water Damage in a Rental: What Arizona Renters Should Do
If water damage happens in your Arizona rental, stop the water if you can, protect your belongings, take photos and tell your landlord or property manager in writing right away. The landlord is usually responsible for repairing the building. Your own renters insurance, if you have it, is usually what covers your belongings.
Water damage in a rental is stressful because you may not know who should do what. Your landlord owns the building, but your things are at risk too. This guide covers the first steps for Arizona renters, how to tell your landlord, and what insurance usually covers. It is general information, not legal advice.
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Need Help Now? Tap Here(833) 937-0179What should I do first if my rental has water damage?
- Stop the water if you can safely, such as closing the valve behind a toilet or sink.
- If water is spreading fast, find the main shut-off or call your property manager's emergency line.
- Turn off power to wet areas only if you can do it from a dry spot.
- Move your belongings, electronics and papers to a dry place.
- Take photos and video of the water, the source and your damaged items.
- Tell your landlord or property manager right away, then follow up in writing.
Find your emergency contact before you need it. Many leases list an after-hours number for leaks.
Who is responsible for water damage repairs?
In most cases, the landlord is responsible for repairing the building, including plumbing, walls, floors and fixtures. Arizona's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act sets out duties for both sides, including keeping the home fit to live in. The Arizona Department of Housing publishes a guide to the act. If a tenant caused the damage, the landlord may seek repair costs from the tenant, depending on the lease and the facts.
How should I tell my landlord?
Call or use the maintenance portal right away for an active leak. Then send a written notice, such as an email or portal message, with the date, what happened, where the water is and your photos. Keep copies. A written record helps if repairs are slow or there is a question later about when the problem started.
- Date and time you found the water
- Where it is coming from, if you know
- Which rooms and items are affected
- Photos and video
- Any steps you took to stop the water
Does renters insurance cover water damage?
Renters insurance usually covers your personal belongings from sudden and accidental water damage, like a burst pipe. It usually does not cover the building itself, which is the landlord's policy. Many renters policies also help with a place to stay if the unit cannot be lived in. Flooding from outside often needs separate coverage. Check your policy, and contact the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions if you have questions about a claim.
What about mold?
Mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours on wet materials, according to the EPA. If you see or smell mold after a leak, tell your landlord in writing. Keep the area ventilated and do not paint over it. See how fast mold grows after water damage.
Can I call a restoration company myself?
For the building, the landlord usually chooses and pays the restoration company. In an emergency where you cannot reach anyone and water is spreading, a call can help limit damage, but check your lease and tell your landlord right away. For your own belongings, you can ask your renters insurer how they handle cleaning or replacement.
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Get Expert Help 24/7(833) 937-0179Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay for water damage in my rental?
Usually not for normal leaks or plumbing failures. If a tenant caused the damage, the landlord may seek repair costs. Your lease and the facts matter.
Can I withhold rent for water damage?
Arizona law has specific steps for repairs and rent. Do not withhold rent without first reading the act or getting legal advice.
Does my landlord's insurance cover my things?
Usually no. The landlord's policy covers the building. Renters insurance is what usually covers your belongings.
What if my landlord does not fix the leak?
Keep written records of every request. The Arizona Department of Housing's landlord and tenant guide explains the steps tenants can take.
Should I move out if there is water damage?
If the unit is unsafe, such as sewage, no power or heavy mold, talk to your landlord and your insurer about a temporary place to stay.
About the author
Noah Miller founded AZ Water Damage Help in Queen Creek to give Arizona homeowners fast, honest water damage help. He writes and updates these guides using public guidance from the EPA, the IICRC, the National Weather Service and Arizona state agencies. More about Noah.