MIGRANT LABOR HOUSING FACILITIES. Migrant labor housing facilities (MLHFs) are defined in Texas Government Code §2306.921 as facilities that are established, operated, or used for more than three days as living quarters for two or more seasonal, temporary, or migrant families or three or more seasonal, temporary, or migrant workers. In Texas, MLHFs are required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA).

The TDHCA has established a number of rules and regulations for MLHFs, which are designed to protect the health and safety of the occupants. These rules cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Facility construction
• Sanitary conditions
• Water supply
• Toilets
• Sewage disposal
• Storage, collection, and disposal of refuse
• Light and air
• Safety requirements
• Fire protection
• Equipment
• Maintenance and operation of the facility

MLHFs are subject to regular inspections by TDHCA staff. If a facility is found to be in violation of any of the rules, the TDHCA may issue a citation or even suspend or revoke the facility’s license.

Here are some of the key rules that MLHFs must comply with:

• The facility must be structurally sound and in good repair.
• The facility must have adequate ventilation and lighting.
• The facility must have a safe and adequate water supply.
• The facility must have adequate toilet and bathing facilities.
• The facility must have a safe and sanitary sewage disposal system.
• The facility must have adequate trash and garbage disposal facilities.
• The facility must have adequate fire protection measures in place.
• The facility must be kept clean and well-maintained.

MLHF owners and operators are responsible for ensuring that their facilities comply with all applicable rules and regulations. If you are considering renting or living in an MLHF, it is important to make sure that the facility is licensed by the TDHCA and that it meets all of the necessary safety and health standards.

You can learn more about MLHFs and the TDHCA’s rules and regulations by visiting the TDHCA’s website at https://tdhca.state.tx.us/migrant-housing/index.htm.

How to report an unlicensed MLHF

If you are aware of an unlicensed MLHF, or if you believe that an MLHF is not meeting the required safety and health standards, you can report it to the TDHCA by calling 1-877-313-3023.