Residents of an apartment complex in South Houston voice concerns over a growing rat problem

Tenants claim persistent air conditioning troubles, dwelling concerns, infestations of insects – including roaches, and in some cases, rats – within their apartments, asserting that their reports to property management have fallen on deaf ears.

, and Administrator

2025 August 30 . 9:25 AM

2 min read

Residents of an apartment complex in South Houston voice concern over a rat problem

Residents of an apartment complex in South Houston voice concerns over a growing rat problem

In the heart of Houston, Texas, the Cullen Park Apartments have become a source of concern for its residents, as a severe rat infestation continues to plague the complex. The apartments, located off Cullen Boulevard, have been home to dozens of rats, some as large as cats, causing significant distress and health concerns among the residents.

Residents have reported seeing rats inside their units and around common areas, with some even choosing to temporarily vacate their homes due to the infestation. The problem, according to one resident who has lived at the complex since 2021, has persisted for over a year, and complaints made to management have reportedly gone unanswered.

The rats are not the only issue residents are facing. A/C problems, maintenance issues, and roaches have also been reported within the apartments. One resident, whose water has been broken since July, is now concerned about potential black mold in her apartment. Another resident's stove and fridge do not work, and tile has been coming up from her kitchen floor.

The city of Houston has been actively involved in addressing the issue. The Health Department has received multiple complaints and conducted investigations into thirteen issues, including rodent presence. Four cases have been closed recently, including one related to rodents, and the Health Department has requested the apartment management provide a concrete rodent control plan.

The Houston Health Department has also reached out to the apartment's management team and provided guidance for rodent control. However, residents claim that management has been largely unresponsive to maintenance requests and complaints about unsafe living conditions. There are reports of management intimidating residents from speaking out publicly.

The city continues to press for full inspections and more robust remedial actions, with possible legal actions being considered due to the ongoing public health threat. As of August 2025, the rat infestation remains a critical ongoing problem at Cullen Park Apartments, with active city interventions but an incomplete resolution.

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