Are there state or federal laws that regulate leases?
Yes, there are both state and federal laws that regulate leases in the state of Texas. The Texas Property Code governs certain aspects of leases, including the amount of rental fees, security deposits, and tenant rights. At the federal level, the Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, family status, and disability. Additionally, the Federal Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 requires landlords to disclose any known lead-based paint hazards. The Texas Property Code also contains specific rules for the termination of leases, including a three-day notice before the landlord enters the tenant’s residence to inspect it or make repairs. Upon the expiration of the lease, the tenant must also give a 30-day notice before they vacate the residence. Additionally, the landlord is obligated to return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days of the termination of the lease. In general, both state and federal laws protect tenants from certain types of discrimination and unfair or excessive fees, as well as from landlords who fail to properly maintain their rental property. If tenants believe that their rights have been violated, they may be able to file a complaint with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs or the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.
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