AR HB1769

Establishes implied residential quality standards for lease and rental agreements entered into or renewed after November 1, 2021, requiring dwelling units to have hot and cold running water, electricity, potable drinking water, compliant sanitary sewer systems, functioning roof and building envelope, and functioning heating and air conditioning systems.

Allows tenants to terminate leases without penalty and receive security deposit refunds if landlords fail to remedy noncompliance with quality standards within 30 calendar days of written notice, provided rent payments are current.

Prohibits tenants from offsetting or withholding rent due to violations of implied residential quality standards and exempts landlords from liability for noncompliance caused by tenant actions, family members, occupants, visitors, or persons hired by the tenant.

Permits landlords to claim compliance if tenants sign a defect form without noting issues and do not subsequently provide notice of noncompliance, or if noncompliance results from tenant refusal to allow landlord entry for repairs.

Amends unlawful detainer and forcible entry procedures to clarify court authority regarding writs of possession, requiring defendants to deposit rent into court registry during proceedings and allowing courts to grant writs if defendants fail to deposit rent without justification.