The Landlord’s Guide to Fair Housing in Texas: What You Can and Cannot Say

What You Cannot Say (Ever)
These are the big landmines, avoid them at all costs:🚫 Statements that describe a “type” of tenant

1. “Perfect for a single professional”
2. “Looking for a quiet older couple”
3. “No kids in the upstairs unit”

Even innocent phrasing can classify as discrimination based on familial status, age, or source of income.
🚫 Comments related to protected classesAnything referencing:

1. Race
2. Color
3. Religion
4. Sex (including gender identity & sexual orientation)
5. National origin
6. Disability
7. Familial status

Example:“You might be more comfortable somewhere quieter” — if said to a family.🚫 Steering or “guiding” applicantsNever tell a prospect where they “should” live based on who they are.
What You Can SayFair housing doesn’t prevent you from being a strong, clear landlord. You CAN:✅ Use objective, property-specific language“2-bed, 1-bath home with fenced yard”“Quiet hours enforced 10 PM–7 AM”“Swift approval for well-qualified applicants”
✅ Enforce written policies consistentlyIf your policy applies to one, it must apply to all.
✅ Explain screening criteria neutrallyIncome requirementsCredit thresholdsCriminal background standards (within federal guidelines)Occupancy limits (within HUD Guidelines)
❗ Bonus: Support AnimalsYou may ask for documentation, but you may not:

1. Charge pet rent
2. Charge pet deposits
3. Deny a qualified ESA/Service animal

Why This Matters for Houston Landlords?Houston can be tough. Tenants know their rights, attorneys know the loopholes, and enforcement is only getting stricter.At PrimePointe Property Management, we see the same pattern: Landlords think they are being helpful or conversational, and accidentally create liability.
Our team protects you with:

1. Fair Housing compliant advertising
2. Consistent screening
3. Documented communication
4. Staff trained to spot phrasing that could cost you thousands

One wrong sentence can trigger a complaint. One smart partnership can prevent all of them.