The Texas House of Representatives has passed House Bill 1862, authored by Representative Rafael Anchia, providing protection for tenants living in a property whose certificate of occupancy has been revoked because the landlord has failed to maintain the premises.
Officials from the City of Irving traveled to the Capitol to testify in support of the bill earlier this month. The bill, which affects properties statewide, but which has particular impact on Irving. The city has been engaged in an effort over the last several years to clean up problem apartment complexes.
"We support this bill because it protects apartment tenants from irresponsible owners and property managers by adding stronger incentives to ensure acceptable living conditions. The effect of the legislation will promote a better quality of life for the Irving apartment community,” said Irving City Councilman Gerald Farris.
The bill would hold the landlord liable for, among other things, returning the full amount of the tenant's security and water deposit and reimbursing tenant's moving costs, storage fees and lost wages. The landlord would also be responsible for returning the pro-rated portion of any rental payment the tenant has paid in advance.
"For too long, tenants have been left out in the cold when a city is forced to shut down severely neglected apartments," said Representative Anchia, adding, "This bill helps tenants deal with a difficult situation that was not of their making, and puts the responsibility where it belongs--on the negligent landlord."
Representative Anchia has pursued a tenants' rights legislative agenda during his four terms in the Legislature. He represents District 103 which covers Dallas, parts of Irving, Carrollton, and Farmer’s Branch.
Councilman Farris was elected to the Irving City Council in May 2010. During his tenure on council, Councilman Farris has advocated for responsible code enforcement to protect Irving’s residents and businesses. He is a member of the City Council Communications Committee, the Community Services Committee, and the Public Works Committee, and also serves as the council liaison for the Animal Services Advisory Committee, Green Advisory Committee, and Irving ISD/Coppell ISD.
