AZ SB1435

Landlords owning 5 or more residential rental units cannot inquire about, consider, or require disclosure of an applicant's criminal history until after a conditional offer of tenancy has been made.

Criminal history inquiries are limited to crimes committed within the 7 years immediately preceding the conditional offer of tenancy.

Exceptions to the prohibition include convictions for sex offenses requiring registration, arson, property damage crimes, and crimes involving the landlord or landlord's property.

Applicants who disclose a qualifying crime must be given a reasonable opportunity to present evidence of rehabilitation, including parole/probation completion, employment history, education, treatment program participation, and community recommendations.

Landlords who violate this section are liable for damages, and applicants can file actions for unlawful ouster and damages; retaliation against applicants or tenants for complaints is prohibited.