Navigating Immigration Enforcement at Rental Housing
Recently, you may have seen news media coverage of protests across the country in response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including high-profile activity in Los Angeles.
These enforcement actions follow a directive issued on January 20th by the Trump Administration, instructing ICE to begin with non-citizens with criminal convictions in various settings—among them, rental housing communities.
While it remains unclear how significantly apartment owners and operators will be impacted by this wave of enforcement, it is essential for housing providers to understand their rights and responsibilities should ICE agents or other federal authorities appear at their property.
To help the industry navigate these sensitive and complex situations, the National Apartment Association (NAA) has developed a resource for members. This guide outlines key legal considerations, including:
- What to do if federal agents request access to the property
- Your rights as a property owner or manager
- Residents' rights and privacy protections
Access Full Guide Here: Member Resource: Immigration Enforcement and Rental Housing (NAA)
In areas where protests are taking place—particularly in downtown Austin—property owners should also remain in contact with local public safety officials. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Austin Police Department can provide updates about protest activity that may affect access to nearby properties.
While we don’t anticipate direct impacts to apartment communities, it’s a good idea to remind residents to stay alert and use caution when traveling downtown during protests. If they see anything concerning, they should contact 911 right away.
Additionally, property managers should encourage residents to report any damage, graffiti, or debris on the premises as soon as possible. Quick communication ensures a prompt response and helps maintain community safety and cleanliness.
These developments may understandably cause concern among housing providers and residents alike. We recognize the stress this situation can cause and appreciate the critical role you play in keeping your communities informed and safe.