A Tucson mobile home park operator (Desert Haven Mobile Home Park) has agreed to issue credits, some exceeding $1,000, after overcharging tenants for water for years. The Arizona Attorney General’s Office confirmed the violations of the Arizona Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Key Points:
- Who: Skyline Real Estate, operator of Desert Haven Mobile Home Park in Tucson.
- What Happened: Residents were overcharged for water between 2017 and June 2025.
- Resolution: Credits will appear on September bills, with some tenants receiving over $1,000.
- Cause: The park used submetering but billed tenants improperly, failing to follow utility district formats.
- Legal Framework: Violated the Arizona Mobile Homes Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
- Tenant Tips:
- Know how to read your submeter and keep photos.
- Bills must be itemized with readings and dates.
- Compare charges to direct utility rates.
- File written complaints or request hearings if overcharged.
Why It Matters for Investors:
- Compliance Risk: Utility billing must strictly follow Arizona statutes. Violations bring refunds, legal costs, and reputational harm.
- Tenant Relations: Improper billing undermines trust and can escalate into eviction disputes.
- Professional Management: Reports show 85% of landlords working with professional managers believe it reduces legal liability.
For Arizona investors, this case is a reminder: accurate utility billing is not optional, it’s a legal requirement.