Texas SB882 amends tenant-landlord rights and duties, increasing civil penalties.

Texas SB882 amends the Texas Property Code to enhance tenant rights and impose stricter duties on landlords. It allows tenants to withhold rent or terminate leases if landlords fail to address serious health or safety issues. The bill also increases civil penalties for landlord retaliation and failure to refund application fees. Additionally, it restricts landlords from inquiring about or basing decisions on an applicant's criminal history unless specific conditions are met. The changes apply to leases executed after the bill's effective date of January 1, 2026.

Texas SB882 amends tenant-landlord rights and duties, increasing civil penalties.

Texas SB882 amends the Texas Property Code to enhance tenant rights and impose stricter duties on landlords. It allows tenants to withhold rent or terminate leases if landlords fail to address serious health or safety issues. The bill also increases civil penalties for landlord retaliation and failure to refund application fees. Additionally, it restricts landlords from inquiring about or basing decisions on an applicant's criminal history unless specific conditions are met. The changes apply to leases executed after the bill's effective date of January 1, 2026.