Attorney General Mayes sues Buenas Communities LLC for deplorable living conditions
PHOENIX – Attorney General Kris Mayes today announced a lawsuit 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.
“All Arizona residents who enter into rental agreements deserve living conditions that meet minimal standards of habitability,” said Attorney General Mayes. “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.”
The complaint alleges a pattern of neglect and deception by Buenas Communities LLC. Since June 2024, many residents have been without proper air conditioning despite Phoenix experiencing the hottest June on record, with temperatures often exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
After media reports regarding the air conditioning aired, Attorney General Mayes issued a demand letter requiring the landlord to fix the issue by Friday, July 26, 2024. 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.
The complaint also alleges that the complex has pervasive issues including broken windows, faulty plumbing, bed bug infestations, and crumbling infrastructure. 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.
“My office is committed to protecting Arizonans from unscrupulous landlords who neglect their legal responsibilities and put lives at risk,” continued Attorney General Mayes. “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.”
Attorney General 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.
If you believe you have been the victim of consumer fraud, you can file a consumer complaint by visiting the Attorney General’s website. If you need a complaint form sent to you, contact the Attorney General’s Office in Phoenix at (602) 542-5763; in Tucson at (520) 628-6648; or outside the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas at (800) 352-8431.