Summary

Allows the Texas Residential Construction Commission to request injunctive relief via the district court for violations of Texas Residential Construction Act. Also makes other specfic changes, including penalties for late payment of fees and expansion of jurisdicition to agents and controlling owners of “builders.”

Background

The Texas Residential Construction Commission was created in the 2003 session in response to high profile problems in residential construction in Texas. In early 2006, Comptroller Strayhorn issued a report indicating that 86% consumers that had the agency rule in their favor did not get redress from the builder after the ruling. The commission currently has little power to enforce compliance with its rulings.

This bill is a companion to HB 215

HB 295 also addresses perceived problems at the TRCC, although it does not address enforcement powers.

Additional Links

Realty Times Article on Comptroller TRCC Report.
Comptroller TRCC Report
Texas Observer on the TRCC