Visitors from around the country started to descend on
Arizona these past few weeks, and this is just the start of the season. Sports,
concerts and other special events bring millions of dollars in revenue to our
economy. It can be tempting to open your home to visitors looking for a
convenient or discounted place to stay.
Using online services like Airbnb, VRBO and Craigslist,
some renters may try to make a little extra money during this high tourist
season. Before you decide to do this, get the facts about your rights and
responsibilities.
The dangers of doing this can be many and varied. There
are certainly safety concerns to consider. This could affect not only your own
home, but your neighbors. Even an accident by a short-term visitor could be
your responsibility.
Second, it’s important to know the rules that govern your
rental home. Your apartment lease may prohibit the subletting of a room in your
home. If you are caught renting a room to a visitor, you may give your landlord
reason to evict you. Nationally, our multifamily industry leaders are examining
this issue to understand how to address it safely and fairly. Apartment owners
want their residents to enjoy their homes, but they are duty bound to provide a
safe and habitable place. With short-term renters who are not vetted in the
same way residents are, they are at a disadvantage.
Apartment residents should be wary of getting involved in
these contracts. It’s best to err on the side of keeping your home and
neighbors’ homes safe.