Can a TX Apartment ban me because of my Criminal Issues? Isn't that Discrimination?

In Texas, apartment management companies have the discretion to establish their own rental criteria, which can include background checks for criminal history. 

While some misdemeanors may not automatically disqualify a potential tenant, others might, depending on the nature of the offense and the policies of the individual apartment complex.

It’s important to note that the Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status. However, this federal law does not protect individuals with criminal records from being denied housing based solely on their criminal history.

Each apartment complex may have different policies regarding misdemeanors. Some may be more lenient, especially if the misdemeanors are non-violent, older, or if the individual has shown evidence of rehabilitation1. It’s advisable to check with various apartment complexes to understand their specific policies. Additionally, some legal resources may provide assistance or advice on how to approach renting with a misdemeanor on one’s record.

If you believe your rights under the Fair Housing Act have been violated, you can file a complaint with the appropriate authorities. For more detailed information, it would be best to consult with a legal professional or a tenant’s rights organization in Texas or look into an Apartment Locator that specializes in helping people with criminal issues. Copyright 2024, 24x7 Apartment Find and its associated web sites. 

Image 15358513 © Krutov Igor | Dreamstime.com

© Copyright 2024, 24x7 Apartment Find and its associated web sites.

10 Reasons you should Hire me to find your next apartment

 Why you should select my FREE Service

BELOW: Illustration 38913929 © Timbrk | Dreamstime.com

1.    Passion: I am dedicated and want to give you the best place to live.

2.    Specialist: As a Specialist, I only deal with criminal issues and/or rental history cases.

3.    Broker: My job title is "real estate broker," which is the top level of license you can get in Texas.  

4.    In-Depth-Knowledge: I know how to deal with rental problems that come up when someone has a criminal issue (misdemeanors, deferred adjudication, felony convictions or pending charges) or a rental past (broken leases or evictions).

5.    Years of Experience: I've been doing this job for more than a decade (12+ years). 

6.    Exclusive Process and Database: I came up with a way for my clients to succeed in renting that also makes it less likely that they will lose application fees and processing fees. I also keep a proprietary database for all types of issues..

7.    Free Service: My service is free in the four biggest cities in Texas. I only get paid if you get hired.  There is a small fee for my service outside of the four major metro areas. The fee will be returned to you when the apartments pay my commission.

8.    Coach: I teach my clients what to say and how to say it so that they can be accepted at the complex while avoiding any possible embarrassment.

9.    Rebate: Once the complex pays me, I'll get an electronic rebate of up to $100 (bigger amounts are illegal in Texas).

10.         Ethical and Professional: I do the right thing and never lie or break the rules. If you are on probation or parole, this is very important.