Due to the tough economic times in which our country finds itself, there is no shortage of homes on the market these days. If your personal financial situation is such that you are able to purchase real estate, this is probably a good time for you to invest. Of course, most responsible home buyers will have a check list of items to address before settling on the chosen address for their family. Are the schools in the neighborhood rated highly? Do all of the major appliances work well, or will they need replacing two months after you move in? Here's is one question that perhaps you have not considered before. Does this house have traces of methamphetamine that may be dangerous to my children and my pets? One state lawmaker in Texas wants to make sure that this issue is not a worry for new homeowners anymore.
The creation and heavy use of meth can leave drug residue in carpets, air ducts, and attics. Even these small traces can pose serious health risks to residents. While Texas property owners are supposed to disclose if a home was previously the setting for meth concoction or consumption and are responsible for cleaning up the environment, our state has no specific guidelines for what this decontamination must entail. House Bill 23, which was introduced by state Rep. David Leibowitz of San Antonio, would require landlords to disclose previous use of methamphetamines and would create clear guidelines for making the home safe for new tenants.
While this new law would help make homes safer for their inhabitants, there are already measures in place if you believe your residence is contaminated. You can file a complaint with the Texas Real Estate Commission and it will begin an investigation. If your health has been compromised or you are not receiving the response you need from your landlord, the personal injury and real estate attorneys at Bertolino LLP can help. We have personal injury attorneys in Austin, Houston and San Antonio, as well as those who practice real estate law, who are ready to provide the legal support you need. Please contact one of our lawyers in our Austin, Houston, or San Antonio office today.
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