Relating to the disclosure of certain fees by a landlord.
If enacted, SB759 will amend the Property Code by adding Section 92.0115, which mandates that landlords provide disclosures prior to a lease signing. Tenants will be safeguarded by a provision that states they are not liable for undisclosed fees, essentially preventing landlords from charging fees that have not been outlined in the lease document. This ensures that all financial aspects of renting a property are clear from the beginning of the lease agreement, potentially reducing disputes between landlords and tenants over undisclosed fees.
SB759 aims to enhance transparency in rental agreements by requiring landlords in Texas to disclose any fixed, recurring fees beyond rent before a lease is signed. This new obligation seeks to protect tenants by ensuring they are fully informed of the costs associated with renting a dwelling. The specific recurrent fees that must be disclosed include any non-rent charges that a landlord intends to impose on the tenant as part of the rental agreement. This aim is to eliminate unexpected fees that might burden tenants after they have committed to a lease.
There may be discussions surrounding the implications of this bill, particularly concerning how landlords will adapt to these new requirements at the legislative level. Supporters argue that this bill will foster a more equitable rental market by promoting fairness and honesty. However, opponents might express concerns that added disclosure requirements could burden landlords, particularly small property owners, with excessive regulations that could complicate the leasing process or deter them from maintaining rental properties. Ensuring compliance with these new requirements may result in additional administrative work for landlords.
The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, which provides landlords a transition period to adjust their practices and ensure compliance with the new fee disclosure requirements.