Habitability Standards: Dallas vs Garland
How do habitability standards rules compare between Dallas, TX and Garland, TX?
Dallas and Garland have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Chapter 27 of the Dallas Code establishes minimum property standards requiring rental units to be safe, sanitary, and fit for human habitation. Requirements include working smoke alarms, safe electrical and plumbing systems, heat capable of maintaining 68 degrees F, secure doors and windows, and sound structure.
View full Dallas rules →Garland, TX
Dallas County
Chapter 32, Article I sets minimum property standards for rental housing, covering structural, plumbing, electrical, heating, sanitation, and vermin control requirements.
View full Garland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Garland |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Chapter 27 | Ch. 32, Art. I |
| Minimum Heat | 68°F in habitable rooms | - |
| AC Standard | 15°F below outside, max 85°F | - |
| Compliance Period | Typically 30 days | - |
| Scope | - | Structure, plumbing, electric, heat |
| Pest Treatment | - | 6 months (multifamily) |
| State Law | - | Tex. Prop. Code Ch. 92 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
What temperature must a Dallas rental maintain?
Heating must maintain at least 68°F in habitable rooms. If air conditioning is provided, it must cool to at least 15°F below outside temperature and no higher than 85°F, subject to code exceptions.
What makes a Dallas rental uninhabitable?
A unit is uninhabitable if it lacks working heat, hot water, safe electrical or plumbing systems, secure doors/windows, smoke alarms, or if the structure is not weathertight. Pest infestations also constitute a habitability violation.
Garland FAQ
What are the minimum habitability standards?
Chapter 32 Article I requires sound structure, working plumbing, safe electrical, heat, hot water, sanitation, and pest control in rental dwellings.
What are my rights as a tenant?
Texas Property Code Chapter 92 gives tenants rights to request repairs of conditions materially affecting health and safety, independent of city enforcement.
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