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Bill

SB 2524

Relating to an action to remedy certain conditions affecting safety or habitability of certain residential rental property; providing a civil penalty.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Borris Miles

SB 2524 empowers Texas tenants to sue landlords for habitability violations and establishes civil penalties for unsafe or uninhabitable rental properties.

Referred to Business & Commerce
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #countygovernment--finance(i0097) #courts--prosecutingattorneys(i0165) #propertyinterests--landlord&tenant(i0610) #safety(i0740)
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Bill Summary · SB 2524

Legislative bill overview

SB 2524 creates a legal mechanism for tenants to take action against landlords when rental properties have safety or habitability issues. The bill establishes civil penalties for landlords who fail to maintain residential rental properties in habitable condition, giving tenants a direct remedy rather than relying solely on existing housing codes or warranty of habitability laws.

Why is this important

Tenant protections directly affect housing quality and public health, particularly for low-income renters who may lack resources to pursue lengthy legal battles. This bill could shift enforcement from government agencies to individual tenants, potentially addressing maintenance problems like mold, broken utilities, pest infestations, and structural defects more rapidly.

Potential points of contention

  • Landlord concerns: Property owners worry about frivolous lawsuits, increased litigation costs, and financial penalties that could be passed to tenants through higher rents or reduced maintenance investments
  • Penalty structure clarity: The bill's specific penalty amounts, definitions of "habitability," and burden of proof standards are undefined, creating uncertainty about enforceability and consistency
  • Tenant access to justice: Without provisions for attorney's fees or class action protections, tenants may still struggle to afford litigation despite the civil remedy option

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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