Tex. Prop. Code Ann. §§ 301.001–301.171 § 301.153
RELIEF GRANTED.
Operative Text
Sec. 301.153. RELIEF GRANTED. If the court finds that a discriminatory housing practice has occurred or is about to occur, the court may award to the plaintiff:(1) actual and punitive damages;(2) reasonable attorney fees;(3) court costs; and(4) subject to Section 301.154, a permanent or temporary injunction, temporary restraining order, or other order, including an order enjoining the defendant from engaging in the practice or ordering appropriate affirmative action. Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 268, Sec. 40, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
Under Texas Property Code § 301.153, when a court determines that a discriminatory housing practice has taken place or is imminent, it has the authority to provide a range of remedies to the person who was harmed. These remedies can include monetary compensation for actual losses, punitive damages meant to punish the wrongdoer, reimbursement of attorney fees and court costs, and court orders that stop the discriminatory conduct or require corrective action. The provision gives courts broad discretion to fashion relief appropriate to the circumstances of each case.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Texas should be aware that § 301.153 exposes defendants found liable for discriminatory housing practices to significant financial and equitable consequences. Compliant operators generally maintain clear, consistently applied tenant-selection criteria, document their housing decisions thoroughly, and train staff on fair housing obligations to reduce the risk of practices that could trigger this provision. Understanding that courts can issue injunctions requiring affirmative corrective action—not just monetary awards—underscores the importance of proactive fair housing compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Texas Property Code § 301.153 outlines the remedies available to tenants or applicants who successfully demonstrate in court that a discriminatory housing practice occurred or was about to occur. These remedies include compensation for actual harm suffered, punitive damages, and recovery of attorney fees and court costs, which can make it more feasible to pursue a claim. Tenants who believe they have experienced housing discrimination may consider reaching out to a local tenant-rights organization, contacting the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division, or exploring a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as potential paths for addressing the issue.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 28, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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