Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Texas

Is a landlord required to divulge to a perspective tenant that the previous tent was found murdered and decomposing in the unit several months earlier. I just moved in a few days ago. Have been repulsed by a putrid odor that wafts through the circulating air and overwhelms when I open my kitchen and bathroom cabinets. I mentioned it to another tenant. I was then informed of the tragedy. The odor pierces my nostrils and won't exit. It's making my sick at my stomach. What about my new mattresses and my clothing? I'm disgusted.


Asked on 8/25/13, 12:51 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Chase Hague The Law Office of Chase P. Hague

I'm sure attorneys will give you different answers on this issue. A landlord has a duty to disclose known facts that may influence a prospective tenant's decision to rent or not. It is not clear whether a court would hold that the landlord had a duty to disclose a crime/death on the property, although there is a good argument for why he/she should. Now, if a prospective tenant asked about it, the landlord has a duty to answer honestly. You should contact an attorney on this issue. Most give free initial consultations.

Read more
Answered on 8/26/13, 4:00 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Landlord & Tenants questions and answers in Texas