Arizona lawmakers have introduced SB1608, a bill that would significantly expand statewide tenant protections related to indoor temperatures and eviction timing.
Here’s what real estate investors in Maricopa and Pinal County need to know.
What SB1608 Would Do
1. Statewide Temperature Standards
- Indoor temperature could not exceed 82°F
- Indoor temperature must stay at or above 68°F during extreme cold
- Applies statewide, including rural areas
- Expands beyond current municipal rules in Phoenix and Tucson
2. Faster Tenant Termination Rights
- Tenants could terminate a lease with 2-day notice if AC or heating fails
- Current law generally requires longer notice periods
- Applies if the issue materially affects health and safety
3. Heat-Related Eviction Restrictions
- Landlords could not evict tenants during any week when:
- Outdoor temps hit 90°F or higher on two or more days
- Designed to prevent displacement during extreme heat periods