AR HB2135

Establishes minimum habitability standards for residential rental properties, requiring landlords to maintain non-leaking roofs, safe structures, operable locks, running water with hot water access, waste disposal systems, electricity, heating sources, and garbage receptacles (except for single-family homes).

Requires landlords to provide functioning smoke alarms at move-in and carbon monoxide detectors by July 1, 2017 for units with fossil fuel heaters, fireplaces, or attached garages.

Prohibits landlords from increasing rent, decreasing services, or evicting tenants within 90 days of complaints or use of remedies under this act, with limited exceptions for tenant-caused violations, non-payment, or material lease breaches.

Establishes repair procedures requiring landlords to complete standard repairs within 14 days and emergency repairs within 24 hours, with tenants able to terminate leases if material health/safety violations are not remedied within 14 days and 30-day notice period.

Allows tenants to seek injunctive relief against landlord noncompliance if landlord has been notified and had reasonable opportunity to remedy the condition, while protecting tenants' right to timely rent payment during disputes.