J
By
John Quigley, Legal Content Director · Reviewed against current A.R.S. · Last reviewed 2026-06-11
Property owners in Arizona owe visitors a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe. When they don’t, an injured person may have a premises-liability claim — though the rules differ sharply for private versus government property.
What Arizona law says
A.R.S. § 12-542 — Two-year statute of limitations for premises-liability injury claims.
A.R.S. § 12-2505 — Pure comparative fault applies — a visitor’s own carelessness reduces but may not eliminate recovery.
A.R.S. § 12-820.01 — Provides certain immunities for public entities, which — combined with the 180-day notice rule — makes claims on government property more complex.
⏱ Key deadline
Two years to sue (A.R.S. § 12-542) — but only 180 days to file a Notice of Claim if you fell on government property.
How slip and fall cases work in Maricopa County
Private-property cases (stores, apartments, restaurants) proceed against the owner’s insurer or in Maricopa County Superior Court. Falls on city, county, or state property require a Notice of Claim within 180 days under A.R.S. § 12-821.01.
Frequently asked questions
What do I have to prove in a slip-and-fall case?
Generally that the owner knew or should have known of a hazard, failed to fix or warn of it, and that the hazard caused your injury.
What if I slipped at a government building?
Special rules apply, including a 180-day Notice of Claim deadline and potential immunities under A.R.S. § 12-820.01.
Does my own carelessness matter?
Under comparative fault, your recovery is reduced by your share of responsibility, but you can still recover.
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Disclaimer: AZAttorneyFinder is an independent attorney directory, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. This page is general legal information about Arizona law, reviewed against the Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.). It is not a substitute for advice from a licensed Arizona attorney about your specific situation. Statutes change — verify current law before relying on it.