Texas House Bill HB23

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08
• Out of House Committee: 5/11/09

Caption

Relating to a residential landlord's disclosure of previous use of leased premises for manufacture of methamphetamine and related remedial action.

Impact

The introduction of HB 23 would significantly affect Texas property laws by enhancing tenant rights in relation to the disclosure of dangerous conditions. By establishing clarity on the obligations of landlords, the bill aims to foster a safer rental environment. If a landlord fails to provide the necessary disclosures, tenants are granted the right to terminate the lease and receive a refund for the rent they paid, which emphasizes the importance of transparency in landlord-tenant relationships.

Summary

House Bill 23 mandates that residential landlords must disclose any prior use of leased premises for the manufacture of methamphetamine. Landlords are required to inform prospective tenants in writing if they have actual knowledge of such previous use and whether any remedial actions have been taken to address hazardous substances resulting from that use. This law is intended to protect tenants from unknowingly living in properties that may pose health risks due to drug manufacturing activities that occurred in the past.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding this bill could arise around how landlords can verify previous use of properties and the potential impact on property values and the rental market. Some landlords may argue that they could face challenges in renting properties that had any historical connection to methamphetamine production. In contrast, tenant advocacy groups might support the bill as a necessary measure for public safety, pushing for strict compliance and penalties for landlords who neglect their disclosure responsibilities.