If you’re a landlord or investor with rental property in Phoenix, tenant complaints can quickly derail what might otherwise be a smooth and profitable experience. From HVAC failures to pest problems and neighbor disputes, there are a few common issues that come up again and again—especially during the scorching summer months and monsoon season.
The good news? Most of these problems are preventable with the right systems in place. Whether you're self-managing or working with full-service property management, anticipating these issues is the key to protecting your investment, keeping tenants happy, and avoiding costly turnover.
Here’s a breakdown of the top tenant complaints in Phoenix—and how proactive property management can stop them before they happen.
1. HVAC Breakdowns: The #1 Complaint in Phoenix Rentals
The issue:
In Phoenix, air conditioning is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Tenants are quick to report HVAC problems, especially when temperatures soar above 110°F. A broken A/C can lead to frustration, emergency calls, and potential habitability violations under Arizona law.
The solution:
A strong rental property management plan includes routine HVAC maintenance twice a year—once before summer and again in fall or early winter. Replace air filters every 30–90 days and consider filter delivery programs to make it easy for tenants.
Smart thermostats can also help reduce system stress, give landlords usage insights, and improve tenant satisfaction.
Pro tip: Keep a licensed HVAC contractor on standby. During peak season, repair delays can last days or weeks, but a property management company with trusted vendor relationships can prioritize your emergencies.
2. Pest Infestations: From Scorpions to Roof Rats
The issue:
Living in the Sonoran Desert means dealing with pests like scorpions, cockroaches, ants, spiders, and even roof rats. These invaders often show up during seasonal changes, monsoon storms, or extreme heat.
The solution:
Prevention is key. A proactive pest control plan should include quarterly treatments, sealing entry points, trimming landscaping away from the home, and educating tenants on trash storage.
Seasonal inspections are also crucial—part of why preventive maintenance is so important in Phoenix.
3. Noise & Neighbor Complaints
The issue:
From late-night parties to barking dogs, noise complaints are one of the most persistent headaches in rental property management. These disputes can lead to lease violations and even police involvement.
The solution:
Outline noise policies and quiet hours in your lease, reinforce them at move-in, and provide a welcome packet with community rules. Address complaints promptly and calmly—often, a quick conversation is all it takes to resolve an issue.
Leasing strategically can also help—for example, placing families with small children on ground floors to avoid noise from above.
4. Delayed Repairs & Poor Communication
The issue:
Tenants quickly lose patience when repairs are delayed or communication is lacking. Even minor issues like a leaky faucet or broken appliance can cause frustration if ignored.
The solution:
Work with a property manager who offers:
24/7 maintenance request portals
Emergency service lines
Regular follow-ups on repairs
This keeps tenants informed, satisfied, and far more likely to renew their lease—helping you reduce vacancy loss.
Why Being Proactive Pays Off
The Phoenix rental market is competitive and profitable, but tenant expectations are higher than ever. Responsiveness, safety, and maintenance are no longer “nice-to-haves”—they’re essential to tenant retention.
A full-service property management team can prevent most issues before they become complaints, saving you time, stress, and lost income.
Want to Avoid These Complaints Altogether?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by tenant issues, it might be time to bring in trusted local professionals. At Real Estate Brokers of Arizona, we handle everything from HVAC maintenance and pest control to tenant relations and inspections—so you can enjoy the benefits of your investment without the headaches.
Learn more about our Phoenix property management services here.
