A rental unit without a certificate of occupancy is illegal. Without a certificate, the landlord cannot collect rent. So you need to lawyer up and possibly withhold rent for both issues.
Most buildings in Texas need a permit; exceptions include sheds <200 sqft, decks <30 inches, and fences <7 feet. Permit is required for plumbing, electrical work, residential additions, pools, and concrete pouring.
The inspector will look for such items as: paint and trim; fire protection requirements; stairs and handrails; roofs; gutters; accessory buildings; interior mechanical systems such as heat, electric and plumbing; interior and exterior structural soundness; and space requirements.
Certificate of Occupancy Fees Certificate of Occupancy Fees Certificate of Occupancy - Partial $104 Certificate of Occupancy - Duplicate $30 Certificate of Occupancy - General Permit $375 Certificate of Occupancy - Residential Early Move-in Penalty $5007 more rows
The City of Houston requires a minimum three-foot side setback for all properties, unless an easement or other agreement allows a smaller distance. On a corner lot, the building must be at least 10 feet from a “local” street on street-facing sides.
A building permit is required for most residential projects inside the corporate city of Houston limits; these include, but are not limited to: Construction work on new or existing buildings. Remodeling (excluding painting, wallpapering)
Sec. 42-150. - Building line requirement. Tract DescriptionMinimum Building Line Requirement Single-family residential 20 feet, if the lot meets the standards of section 42-156(b) 10 feet, if the lot meets the standards of section 42-156(b) or section 42-157(b) 5 feet, if the lot meets the standards of section 42-157(c)28 more rows
Under the National Building Code: The front yard must be at least 3 meters from the property line facing the street. The side yards, bordering neighboring properties, should have a minimum distance of 2 meters. The rear yard should also maintain a 2-meter setback.