But some cities, like Tempe, have crafted more specific laws, like having hot water that’s at least 110 degrees or an eye viewer or window near the front door. The statewide code is not as specific.
Democrat Martin Quezada disagrees with Farnsworth.
"I do believe that a lot of these issues are best dealt with at the local level where city council members know the unique needs. They know the unique situations that their residents are dealing with, particularly with landlord-tenant issues," he said.
The Arizona Multi-housing Association, an organization that represents landlords, is behind the effort to keep city councils and county supervisors from enacting mandates that are not required by state law.