Residents at The Elton apartment complex in Phoenix have been enduring a lack of air conditioning since July 5, amid some of the hottest days of the year. The situation has led to at least one death and the hospitalization of a pregnant woman, as the complex, managed by Diamond Asset Management LLC, faced considerable pressure to rectify the hazardous living conditions, as reported by ABC15.
Following the death of a 66-year-old man and hospitalization of residents, including a pregnant woman with an indoor temperature of 97 degrees, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes demanded the complex quickly to take action. According to ABC15, Mayes called the situation “gravely dangerous” and gave Diamond Asset Management until 5 p.m. Friday, July 18, to resolve the issue.
The Elton, located near 24th Street and Thomas Road, reportedly experienced an air-conditioning malfunction that affected almost all of its units. Residents who were given portable units could only manage to reduce indoor temperatures to the 83-87º range, a significant contrast to Phoenix and Tucson’s legal thresholds of 82º for habitable rooms, which increases slightly to 86º for those using evaporative coolers. This information was corroborated by statements from residents in an interview obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix.
After the attorney general’s ultimatum, tenants reported that their units were finally cooling again by the deadline. "I'm appalled at the conditions these tenants were forced to experience, especially during the summer heat," Attorney General Mayes said in a statement obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix. The Attorney General's Office has since initiated an investigation to fully understand and address the failures that led to such hazardous living conditions at The Elton.
Tips for residents whose air conditioning fails include promptly notifying landlords, with a recommended follow-up in writing. When extreme heat exacerbates medical conditions, this should be clearly communicated. Furthermore, if landlords fail to repair A/C units within a legally specified timeframe, tenants may have the option to either fix the issue themselves and deduct costs from rent, terminate their lease, or sue for damages. All these steps should be considered carefully, and in situations where landlords are not responsive, complaints can be filed with the Arizona Attorney General's Office, as per ABC15.
