Are landlords allowed to require tenants to submit to a credit check in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

Yes, landlords in Texas are allowed to require tenants to submit to a credit check in accordance with Fair Housing Law. However, applicants must give their written consent before the landlord can require this. Additionally, the landlord must use the same criteria for all applicants and must treat everyone equally when performing the credit check. The regulations surrounding credit checks are in place to ensure that landlords are not discriminating based on race, religion, national origin, color, sex, disability, familial status, or any other protected category under Fair Housing Law. Landlords must use the credit check as a tool to evaluate the financial responsibility of the tenants, not to determine whether an applicant is a member of a certain group. Landlords are also prohibited from asking about the credit history of potential tenants’ family members. It is illegal to reject or discriminate against a tenant based on their credit score, or their racial or religious background. In Texas, landlords are allowed to require tenants to submit to a credit check in accordance with Fair Housing Law. However, they must use it as a tool to evaluate the financial responsibility of the tenants, not as a way to discriminate against potential tenants.

Related FAQs

Is the landlord held liable for any damages if found in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Is a landlord responsible for the actions of other tenants in violation of Fair Housing Law?
What legal recourse is available to tenants who have been discriminated against in violation of Fair Housing Law?
Are landlords allowed to discriminate against individuals who receive public assistance in violation of Fair Housing Law?
What are the obligations of landlords when it comes to Fair Housing Law?
How does Fair Housing Law apply to disabled persons?
Are there any forms or documents required for filing a Fair Housing Law complaint?
Does Fair Housing Law apply to condominiums and apartment complexes?
Are landlords allowed to refuse tenants based on their race under Fair Housing Law?
Are there any restrictions on the types of documents landlords are allowed to request from tenants under Fair Housing Law?

Related Blog Posts

What is Fair Housing Law and How Does it Impact Home Ownership? - July 31, 2023
Understanding Your Rights Under Fair Housing Laws - August 7, 2023
Learn How to Protect Yourself from Housing Discrimination Under Fair Housing Law - August 14, 2023
What is Covered Under the Fair Housing Act and How Does it Affect Landlords? - August 21, 2023
Navigating the Complicated Rules and Regulations of Fair Housing Law - August 28, 2023