Here I discuss my impressions of recent legislation in Texas. The newer the law, the less we know about what tools are effective, and tribulations that can tie homeowners in knots (or worse).
The Texas Legislature meets in odd years, starting in January, usually ending in May, sometimes with special sessions thereafter. You can find links to statutes and other resources here.
You can find some history here. Below I describe important changes made in recent legislative sessions, grouped by legislative year. Please note that these are not intended as complete descriptions, and do not forget my disclaimer.
We plan to seek further improvements next session. To submit questions or comments, or proposals for next legislative session, here is Contact Info for me. Here is a link to the HOA Reform Coalition of Texas.
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Overview of New Laws in 2021
Leadership by the Texas Realtors enabled homeowners to have their best year since 2015. The builders were helpful (!), and the Justices of the Peace were strongly supportive. Many legislators contributed, including some who supported important bills that did not get enacted. Given other priorities, it was a tribute to all concerned that our issues…
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Overview of New Laws in 2019 (to come)
Under Review.
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Overview of New Laws in 2017 (to come)
Under Review
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Overview of New Laws in 2015
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Overview of New Laws in 2013
By comparison to major legislation in 2011, less was accomplished in 2013. It is probably fair to say that homeowner rights somewhat increased. Major Changes Limit Contracts That Directors Can Make in Subdivisions (HB 503) Too often directors have taken advantage of their positions to obtain contracts with their association to pay themselves, their families…
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Homeowners Have Rights To Get Important Documents
Strong laws protect our rights to get documents from local governments. This used to be known as the Open Records Act, and now is called the Public Information Act. See the Texas Government Code 552.001. This currently applies in a very limited way in the Clear Lake area of Harris County. See Texas Government Code…
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Subdivisions Should Put Important Documents on the Internet
Texas Property Code 207.006 states as follows: “A property owners’ association shall make dedicatory instruments relating to the association or subdivision and filed in the county deed records available on a website if the association has, or a management company on behalf of the association maintains, a publicly accessible website.” Why do they have a…