Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2422

Filed

2/4/25

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to seller's disclosures regarding water services for and water rights in residential real property.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2422 will significantly impact real estate transactions by ensuring that water-related rights and conditions are clearly communicated to buyers before a sale. The bill will standardize the disclosure process, making it mandatory for sellers of single-unit residential properties to provide structured documentation about the water rights relevant to their property. This change enhances the buyers' understanding of their rights and responsibilities, particularly in areas where water availability is a concern, such as those located in groundwater conservation districts.

Summary

House Bill 2422 addresses the issue of seller's disclosures regarding water services and water rights in residential real property within Texas. This bill amends the property code to require sellers to provide comprehensive information about groundwater and surface water rights associated with residential properties. Specifically, it mandates that sellers disclose whether groundwater or surface water rights are included in the property transfer and any water wells located on the property. This is aimed at enhancing transparency for potential buyers about the water rights that come with their prospective homes.

Contention

One notable point of contention that may arise from HB 2422 relates to the potential impact on property values and market dynamics. Critics may argue that imposing stringent disclosure requirements could create hesitation among sellers, thereby affecting sales timelines and property costs. Additionally, sellers may have concerns regarding liability if a disclosure proves to be incomplete or incorrect. Conversely, advocates of the bill believe that comprehensive disclosures on water rights will protect buyers, promote environmental responsibility, and potentially lead to more sustainable water management practices in residential developments.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Property Code

Chapter 5. Conveyances
- Section: New Section

Latest HB2422 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB697

Relating to seller's disclosures regarding fuel gas piping in residential real property.

TX SB864

Relating to certain seller's disclosures for the sale of residential real property.

TX HB1256

Relating to seller's disclosure notice concerning special districts in which residential real property is located.

TX HB3368

Relating to the regulation of certain transactions involving oil and gas tubing.

TX HB2571

Relating to notice of water and wastewater requirements for the foreclosure sale of residential properties by certain political subdivisions.

TX SB59

Relating to notice of water and wastewater requirements for the foreclosure sale of residential properties by certain political subdivisions.

TX HB2496

Relating to notice provided by certain public water systems regarding a water service interruption in an area served by a fire department that provides fire suppression services.

TX HB1496

Relating to requiring the disclosure of taxes and fees charged for the short-term rental of residential property.

TX SB348

Relating to the prohibition on posting on the Internet information held by an appraisal district regarding certain residential property.

TX HB4316

Relating to regulation of residential service contract providers, sellers, and administrators.