Illegal Rental Advertisement Language in Texas: What Landlords Cannot Say

When searching for a rental home or apartment in Texas, it’s important to know that both federal and Texas state laws regulate how landlords and property managers can advertise available rentals. These laws protect renters from discrimination, ensuring that everyone has equal access to housing opportunities. Understanding what language is illegal in rental ads can empower you to recognize unfair treatment and take action if you see a violation in Texas.

What Laws Govern Rental Advertisement Language in Texas?

Two primary legal frameworks protect renters from discriminatory advertising in Texas:

• The federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 3601-3619) prohibits discrimination in housing, including advertisements, based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), familial status, and disability.^[1]
• The Texas Fair Housing Act (Texas Property Code Chapter 301) further reinforces these protections at the state level.^[2]

The Texas Workforce Commission – Civil Rights Division is the official agency that investigates housing discrimination complaints in Texas. You can visit their official site for more information or to file a complaint.

What Rental Ad Language Is Illegal?

It is illegal for any landlord, agent, or property manager to use language in rental advertisements that expresses, indicates, or suggests a preference or limitation based on any protected class under federal or state law.

Examples of Prohibited Phrases in Rental Ads

• "No children," "Adults only," or "Perfect for singles" (familial status discrimination)
• "Christians only" or "No Muslims" (religious discrimination)
• "English speakers only" (national origin discrimination)
• "No Section 8" (this may indicate source of income discrimination, which is not universally protected in Texas, but may be locally restricted - check your city's ordinances)
• "Male preferred" or "Females only" (sex discrimination unless sharing living space)
• "No disabled" or "Able-bodied tenants only" (disability discrimination)
• Terms referring to race, color, ethnicity, or references to specific racial groups

Instead, advertisements should stick to neutral information, such as number of bedrooms, rent price, amenities, and property features.

Recognizing Discriminatory Advertising: Practical Tips

• If you see language that limits who can apply based on characteristics like family status, religion, ethnicity, or disability, it may violate fair housing laws.
• Statements about "quiet neighborhood," "ideal for mature tenants," or "no kids" can sometimes signal discrimination.
• If in doubt, consider contacting the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division for guidance.

How to Report Illegal Rental Ad Language in Texas

If you encounter a potentially discriminatory rental ad or were denied housing after seeing such an ad, you have the right to file a complaint.

• Texas Fair Housing Complaint Form (Form CRD-108): Use this form to file a fair housing complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission – Civil Rights Division. You can download the form and instructions on the official TWC complaint page.
• When to use: If you experience, witness, or suspect discrimination as a renter based on ad language or application process.
• How to use: Complete the form with your personal details, the landlord’s or property manager’s information, and a description of the ad with illegal language. Attach any relevant evidence, such as a screenshot.

Complaints should be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination incident for the best chance of official investigation and resolution.

Where are Cases Heard?

In Texas, complaints are investigated by the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division (TWC CRD Fair Housing). If necessary, cases can proceed to state or federal court. You can learn more about the process on the TWC Fair Housing page.

1. What if I see an ad with illegal language but wasn’t directly denied housing?
   Even if you did not apply or were not directly affected, you can still file a complaint to help prevent discrimination against others.
2. Is it ever legal for a landlord in Texas to specify rental preferences?
   Generally, landlords may describe property features or rules, but may not state preferences or restrictions based on protected characteristics unless the housing is exempt (such as a roommate situation where occupants share living space).
3. Are age restrictions allowed in Texas rental ads?
   Only certain federally recognized housing (such as housing for older persons – 55+ communities) can include age or familial status limits in ads.
4. Can I get help reviewing a questionable advertisement?
   Yes, you can reach out for guidance to the TWC Civil Rights Division or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Fair Housing office.
5. Is there a deadline to file a fair housing complaint in Texas?
   Yes, complaints should be filed within one year of the discriminatory act.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Texas law protects renters from discriminatory advertising language related to race, color, religion, sex, disability, national origin, and familial status.
• Watch for illegal phrases like “no children,” "adults only," or “must speak English” in ads, and know you can report violations.
• File complaints with the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division using the official fair housing forms and process.

Being informed about your rights helps create a fairer rental market for everyone in Texas.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division – Fair Housing (submit complaints and get guidance)
• U.S. HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
• Texas Property Code Chapter 301 – Texas Fair Housing Act
• Official Texas Fair Housing Complaint Form (CRD-108)

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1. Fair Housing Act – 42 U.S.C. §§ 3601-3619. Fair Housing Act official text
2. Texas Fair Housing Act – Texas Property Code Chapter 301. Texas Fair Housing Act full text

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