Richardson, TX Rental Property Rules: Rent Control (2026)
Rent control rules in Richardson, TX, also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances, limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Key Facts
- Tx Local Gov't
- TX Local Gov't Code 214.902 preempts local rent control
- Governor Must Declare
- Governor must declare housing emergency to enable it
- No Annual Rent
- No annual rent-increase cap applies
- Mid
- Mid-lease rent changes require tenant agreement
- Security Deposit Rules
- Security deposit rules under TX Property Code Ch. 92 still apply
Summary
Texas Local Government Code 214.902 preempts rent control; Richardson may not cap rents or annual increases on private residential property.
Sec. 214.902. RENT CONTROL. (a) The governing body of a municipality may, by ordinance, establish rent control if:(1) the governing body finds that a housing emergency exists due to a disaster as defined by Section 418.004, Government Code; and(2) the governor approves the ordinance.(b) The governing body shall continue or discontinue rent control in the same manner that the governor continues or discontinues a state of disaster under Section 418.014, Government Code.
Full Breakdown
Richardson cannot impose rent control on private residential rentals because Texas Local Government Code Section 214.902 preempts any local ordinance that limits rent or rent increases. A city may only adopt rent control after the governor declares a housing emergency in that city and the governing body finds the emergency creates a severe shortage, a two-step gate that has not been met in modern Texas history. Richardson has never enacted rent control, and no cap on annual rent increases applies. Landlords must still follow the Texas Property Code Chapter 92 requirements for notices, security deposits, and habitability, and any rent increase mid-lease requires tenant consent unless the lease itself permits adjustment. Federal fair housing rules prohibit discriminatory rent pricing. Tenants facing large increases may seek relief only through negotiation or relocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Richardson landlord raise my rent as much as they want?
Is a 60-day renewal notice required?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richardson
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Rent Control in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle rent control.