Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has sued a 400-unit apartment complex in Phoenix for failing to provide adequate air conditioning during the summer heat wave, according to a release.
Mayes filed a lawsuit in Maricopa County Superior Court against Buenas Communities LLC, the corporate landlord operating the apartment complex known as “Buenas on 32nd,” for willfully neglecting to provide habitable living conditions for its residents, according to the release.
“All Arizona residents who enter into rental agreements deserve living conditions that meet minimal standards of habitability,” Mayes said in the release. “The ongoing neglect and deplorable conditions at Buenas Communities’ properties have put residents’ lives at serious risk, especially during the record-breaking heat this summer.
“My office is committed to protecting Arizonans from unscrupulous landlords who neglect their legal responsibilities and put lives at risk. Every Arizona renter, no matter their income level, deserves fairness and honesty from their landlord. I will not stand by while vulnerable residents are subjected to such deplorable conditions,” she said in the release.
Lack of adequate air conditioning and other issues
The complaint alleges that the complex has pervasive issues including broken windows, faulty plumbing, bed bug infestations, and crumbling infrastructure. The swimming pool is filled with putrid green water. Mattresses, due to alleged bed bug infestation, have been strewn around the complex and litter trash areas. Also, loose stairs and wobbly railings show lack of maintenance.
After a demand letter from Mayes in July, Buenas Communities LLC subsequently installed a portable chiller. However, temporary fixes, such as previously installed window units and the portable chiller, have not proven adequate for all tenants.
Mayes said in the release, “These conditions are not disclosed to potential tenants, potentially violating the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act and the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Additionally, residents who voiced complaints faced threats of eviction and other forms of retaliation from the complex management.
Mayes is seeking a permanent injunction requiring Buenas Communities LLC to make necessary repairs and comply with Arizona laws, as well as a permanent injunction barring the defendant from renting to Arizona consumers in the future. The complaint also asks for restitution and civil penalties for the harm caused to residents.
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