Window screens - Landlord Forum thread 354670

Window screens by Anonymous (TXk) on October 16, 2017 @21:41

New tenant requested all new screens on 2 story home 1st month after move in. Called with request when temperatures dropped with 1st cool front.some damage noted on move-in check list which states is a condition list not work order.I denied request. Tenant also requested a screen door be installed on front door at the initial meet and greet, which i also denied.
Are screen require on rental property in Texas?

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Re: Window screens by Garry (Iowa) on October 17, 2017 @05:54	[ Reply ]

Is there a reason you don't want to put screens on your tenant's windows, or provide a screen door for them? I thought Texas had flying insects year around? Doesn't it get quite warm in Texas, year around, that people tend to want to open windows, and let the fresh air in quite often without bugs getting in? Why was there damage noted by the tenant on their move-in check list? Your property should be in tip-top condition to attract the best tenants, and get the highest rent possible for the area. Your state laws may not "require" screens, but I'll bet many of your cities do. In my city, not only do they require screens on all openable windows, but they go so far as to say what size mesh the screen has to be. Besides, I would think it would be just common sense to have good window screens on all your windows in Texas. Remember, if you can't keep your customers(tenants) happy, they won't stick around very long. Expect some more damage left by this tenant when they leave, because if you don't care about the condition of your property, why should they?

Re: Window screens

Re: Window screens by lamac66 (ga) on October 17, 2017 @07:39	[ Reply ]

Maybe not required but is a commonly present item. You would want your rental to be in the best condition possible i suppose.

Re: Window screens by KF (TX) on October 17, 2017 @16:56	[ Reply ]

I don't think screens are required in Texas, but I like them and use them so I provide them. The screen door I will not do on the front door because it ruins the look of the house (personal opinion, but when it's my house...).

Re: Window screens by Anonymous on October 17, 2017 @17:03	[ Reply ]

The requirement for window screens is regulated on the local municipality level by local ordinances. The State of Texas does mandate that local municipalities adopt One of the National Building Codes. The wording in such codes generally state; "Every window opening to outdoor space, which is used or intended to be used for ventilation, shall be supplied with screens covering all of the window areas required for ventilation. The material used for all such screens shall be not less than 16 mesh per inch and shall be properly installed, maintained and repaired to prevent the entrance of flies, mosquitoes or other insects. Half screens on windows may be allowed, provided, they are properly installed and are bug and insect tight" Also many state that "The landlord is responsible for maintaining the residence in a reasonable rodent-proof condition and rectifying any condition that would allow squirrels, birds, etc to enter and nest. Infestations of mice, squirrels, vermin, and or poisonous insects can cause damage to a property and can be a health risk to people" There are also requirements that screens be in place for protection from when blown debris in storm prone areas. Then there are those areas which require window screens in order to receive an occupancy or rental permit. Others require solar screening as part of their building ordinance. Stepping over hundreds of dollars to pick up a few dollars is not good business sense. Better properties rent for more and they attract better tenants. Adding a storm door with screen to your front door is a low cost improvement that can help attract and keep good tenants and should not be easily dismissed. It may also set you apart from other rentals in the area as having better rental value if area rents are comparable.