Texas
Security deposit laws in Texas
The Texas-specific deadline, what you can deduct, and how to write a compliant itemized statement — with statutory citations.
Return deadline
30 days
Generally counted from the date the tenant surrenders the unit (move-out / keys returned).
Source: Texas Property Code Sections 92.101–92.109
What landlords can deduct
- Provide an itemized list of each deduction with a description and amount.
- Refund the balance of the deposit (if any) within the 30-day window.
- Do not deduct for normal wear and tear.
- Texas permits deduction of damages and charges expressly permitted by the lease, in addition to physical damage.
Receipts & documentation
- If any portion of the deposit is withheld, include a written description and itemized list of all deductions.
- Texas does not require copies of receipts to be attached, but keeping invoices strengthens your position if disputed.
- If deductions are for repairs, document the work performed and the cost.
Gray areas to review carefully
Normal wear and tear vs. damage
Texas law excludes normal wear and tear from deductibility. Distinguish ordinary aging from damage before charging.
Lease-defined charges
Texas allows deductions for charges expressly permitted by the lease (e.g. unpaid rent, early termination fees) — verify the lease clause before charging.
Bad-faith retention penalty
A landlord who acts in bad faith in retaining the deposit may be liable for $200 plus three times the amount wrongly withheld. Review each deduction honestly.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Texas?
Generally 30 days. Generally counted from the date the tenant surrenders the unit (move-out / keys returned). Source: Texas Property Code Sections 92.101–92.109. This is a general rule — verify your specific situation and any local ordinances.
Is an itemized statement required in Texas?
Yes. Texas requires a written itemized list of deductions. Provide an itemized list of each deduction with a description and amount.
Can a landlord deduct for "normal wear and tear" in Texas?
No. Every US state (including Texas) excludes normal wear and tear from deductibility. Only damage beyond ordinary wear — such as stains, burns, large holes, or breakage — is typically deductible. Compare move-in and move-out photos for each item.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Texas?
A landlord who acts in bad faith in retaining the deposit may be liable for $200 plus three times the amount wrongly withheld. Review each deduction honestly.
Does MoveOutGuard support Texas?
Yes — MoveOutGuard generates a Texas-specific deduction letter using the deadline (30 days) and citation (Texas Property Code Sections 92.101–92.109) above. Upload your receipts and move-out photos and the AI drafts an itemized letter for human review.
Draft your Texas letter in minutes
Upload receipts and photos. Get a Texas-specific itemized deduction letter for human review.
MoveOutGuard is a document preparation and evidence organization tool. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Drafts, checklists, and deadline estimates require your review and are not a guarantee of compliance or outcomes. For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney.