Fort Worth Code Ch. 10 (Minimum Urban Rehabilitation Standards) requires property owners to maintain structures free from rodent and insect infestation. TX Property Code Sec. 92.052-92.056 requires landlords to address pest infestations affecting habitability after written tenant notice. TX Occupations Code Ch. 1951 requires commercial pest applicators to be licensed by TDLR.
Fort Worth regulates pest control through its property maintenance code and state law. Chapter 10 of the Fort Worth Code of Ordinances (Minimum Urban Rehabilitation Standards, also known as MURS) requires property owners to maintain buildings in a condition free from rodent, insect, and vermin infestation. Code Compliance officers may issue violations for properties with visible pest infestations that constitute a nuisance or health hazard. For rental properties, Texas Property Code Sections 92.052 and 92.056 require landlords to make diligent efforts to repair conditions that materially affect the physical health or safety of an ordinary tenant, which includes infestations of roaches, rats, bedbugs, and other pests. Tenants must provide written notice and allow a reasonable time (typically 7 days) for the landlord to begin repairs. Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1951 (Structural Pest Control Act) requires all commercial pest control applicators to be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Unlicensed pest control work is a criminal offense.
Fort Worth Code Compliance violations for pest-related property maintenance issues: notice to repair, then municipal court citation with fines up to $500/day. Landlords who fail to address habitability issues after proper tenant notice: tenant may pursue remedies under TX Property Code Sec. 92.0563 including repair-and-deduct or lease termination.
Fort Worth, TX
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