Garland's Rental Inspections: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles rental inspections a little differently. In Garland, Texas, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Inspection Programs

Chapter 32 requires all single-family rental properties (including duplexes) to be registered with Code Compliance with an annual $65 permit fee. Multifamily properties receive annual inspections.

Key details: Code Section: Chapter 32. Annual Fee: $65 per unit. Inspection Trigger: Change of tenancy. Multifamily: Annual inspections.

Operating an unpermitted rental is a Class C misdemeanor under Chapter 32 with fines up to $500 per day. Failing an inspection can result in permit denial or revocation and notices of violation.

This is one of the stricter rules in Garland's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Tenant Complaint Process

Tenants may report habitability or code issues to Garland Code Compliance at 972-485-6400. Retaliation for such reports is prohibited under Texas Property Code Sec. 92.331.

Key details: City Hotline: 972-485-6400. Code Section: Chapter 32. State Retaliation: Tex. Prop. Code 92.331. Repair Remedy: Tex. Prop. Code 92.052-056.

Landlord retaliation under Sec. 92.331 can result in civil penalty of one month's rent plus $500, actual damages, and attorney's fees. City-level violations can bring Code Compliance fines under Chapter 32.

Habitability Standards

Chapter 32, Article I sets minimum property standards for rental housing, covering structural, plumbing, electrical, heating, sanitation, and vermin control requirements.

Key details: Code Section: Ch. 32, Art. I. Scope: Structure, plumbing, electric, heat. Pest Treatment: 6 months (multifamily). State Law: Tex. Prop. Code Ch. 92.

Noncompliance is a Class C misdemeanor with fines up to $500 per day. Repeated critical violations may lead to permit revocation and placarding of unsafe units under state law.

This is one of the stricter rules in Garland's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Garland is tougher than many cities when it comes to rental inspections. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Garland, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Garland's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.