Bill > HB4305

This bill introduces new requirements for landlords in Texas regarding the disclosure of rent, fees, and charges when leasing a dwelling. Landlords must now clearly disclose all monthly fixed, recurring fees (such as valet trash, insurance, pest control, internet, cable, amenity, and washer/dryer fees) alongside the base rent in lease quotes, rental applications, and advertisements. The lease must itemize and transparently list monthly rent, all fixed fees, optional charges, security deposit information, utility responsibilities, application fees, and potential lease violation charges on its first page. Any changes to these fees must be agreed to in writing, and tenants cannot waive this disclosure requirement. If a landlord fails to disclose a fee, they are prohibited from assessing that fee and could be liable for $100 plus three times the undisclosed fee amount, along with the tenant's attorney's fees. The bill also prevents landlords from filing eviction proceedings for undisclosed fees and allows prospective tenants to request a refund of application-related payments if disclosure requirements are not met. Violations of these disclosure rules are considered deceptive business practices, though landlords can mitigate penalties by demonstrating a good faith effort to comply. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies to new or renewed leases from that date forward.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4305