Texas Security Deposit Law
Texas landlords must return security deposits within 30 days under Tex. Prop. Code § 92.103. Violations result in damages up to 3× the deposit plus $100 civil penalty plus attorney's fees.
Key Facts — Texas
- Return deadline
- 30 days after move-out
- Governing statute
- Texas Property Code § 92.103
- Short citation
- Tex. Prop. Code § 92.103
- Penalty for violation
- damages up to 3× the deposit plus $100 civil penalty plus attorney's fees
- Small claims court limit
- $20,000
Generate your demand letter
We generate a formal security deposit demand letter citing Tex. Prop. Code § 92.103 with the exact penalty language. Most landlords respond within 14 days of receiving a formal letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Texas?
Under Tex. Prop. Code § 92.103, a Texas landlord must return the security deposit — along with an itemized list of any deductions — within 30 days of the tenant vacating the property.
What happens if a Texas landlord keeps my deposit illegally?
If your landlord fails to return the deposit within 30 days without a valid reason, damages up to 3× the deposit plus $100 civil penalty plus attorney's fees. You can pursue this in Texas small claims court (limit: $20,000).
Can a landlord in Texas deduct for normal wear and tear?
No. Texas law, like all US states, prohibits landlords from deducting for normal wear and tear — routine scuffing, minor carpet wear, and faded paint are the landlord's cost of doing business, not the tenant's.
How do I send a security deposit demand letter in Texas?
Generate a demand letter citing Tex. Prop. Code § 92.103, sign it, and send via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt to your landlord. The certified mail receipt creates a legal paper trail and proves delivery. Give the landlord 14 days to respond before filing in small claims court.
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