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Renter Resources from the Texas Apartment Association

April 8, 2020

As we continue to deal with the impact of COVID-19 and its ripple effect on jobs and the economy, it’s

important that we work together as a community to help prevent people from being displaced from

situation with your Property Manager.

Providing documentation from an employer or other documentation that shows how you have been

Ignoring notices and requests to contact your Property Manager is not advised. Frequent and timely

communication is the best course of action.

Someone may still face eviction for posing an imminent threat of physical harm to others, or engaging in

However, you can still be issued a notice to vacate by your Property Manager for non-payment of rent.

and will usually occur if you fail to respond to notices/requests to contact your Property Manager.

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Several but not all Texas electricity providers have suspended disconnects and are waiving late fees

during the COVID-19 crisis. Please check directly with your provider on what options they offer during this

pay your rent protects your rights as a renter under Texas law. If you’re concerned you will not be able to

pay your rent, we recommend you communicate with your property manager with specific information

about your situation to see what options they may be able to offer in this unusual circumstance.

Failing to pay your rent hurts our ability to meet those obligations, as well as our ability to operate and

maintain the property where you live. Ultimately it may also hurt your credit or result in an eviction once

reduction of wages should contact their housing authority to see what can be done to provide assistance.

• To avoid unnecessary contact, or maintenance staff entering your unit, consider notifying the

management that you are undergoing self-isolation or quarantine.

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countertops, tabletops, doorknobs, nightstands, bathroom fixtures, toilets, refrigerator handles,

kitchen faucets, light switches, TV remotes, cell phones, computer keyboards and tablets.

• Do not leave your unit unless it’s an emergency. Do not use common areas.

• Postpone non-essential maintenance requests.

• Inquire about safety measures in place—Apartment communities are incorporating additional

measures during this outbreak, such as deep-cleaning and disinfecting high-traffic surfaces. They

may have closed or limited access to common rooms, gyms and laundry rooms. They may be

• Vet your moving/van rental company—Before scheduling your move, inquire what sanitation

procedures your moving company has in place. Ask for movers to wear gloves to avoid

contaminating your belongings. Alternately, consider moving your belongings yourself to minimize

• Close select or all amenities

• Ask you to pay rent online

• Close office to non-employees

• Limit repairs to emergency situations only

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• Limit contamination of common amenities, such as the communal gym, movie room, or a

playground, by using disinfecting wipes before and after you use the equipment. Avoid using

• Limit visitors—Practice social distancing by limiting visitors to your unit or inviting friends/family to

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