Landlord / Tenant refers to the relationship between (1) the owner or lessor (landlord) of residential or commercial real property known as the leased premises and (2) the occupant or lessee (the tenant) of the leased premises—often a home or office building or space. This relationship is defined by the (usually written) lease agreement signed by the landlord and tenant, and the laws governing the landlord / tenant relationship—which are usually located in a state’s statutes.

A residential or commercial lease of real property (real estate) allows the tenant or lessee to use the property and the improvements on the property—generally a building structure such as a home, office, store, or warehouse, for example—for a stated purpose (such as for a residential dwelling or the operation of a hair salon) and for a fixed period of time (the term of the lease), in exchange for the payment of rent.

Personal property—including automobiles, computers, heavy equipment, machines, home appliances, and other tangible, movable goods—may also be leased, but the parties to a lease of personal property (as opposed to real property) are not referred to as landlord and tenant, but as lessor and lessee.

In Arizona, the landlord-tenant relationship is governed by the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for residential leases, and by other state laws and individual lease agreements for commercial leases. These laws and agreements outline the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. A lease agreement, which is typically in written form, allows the tenant to use the property for a specific purpose and duration in exchange for rent. The Act sets forth various provisions including, but not limited to, security deposits, lease terminations, evictions, maintenance and repair duties, and the handling of abandoned property. It is important for both landlords and tenants to understand their legal obligations under the lease and state law. For instance, landlords must provide habitable living conditions and give proper notice before entering a tenant's dwelling, while tenants are required to pay rent on time and maintain the property in good condition. Disputes between landlords and tenants can often be resolved through communication, but legal action may be necessary if an agreement cannot be reached. An attorney can provide specific guidance and representation in matters related to landlord-tenant law.