Texas security deposit law
Return deadline
30 days
Small claims limit
$20,000 (justice court)
What you need to know
- • Deposit due back within 30 days of move-out; itemized deductions required.
- • You must provide a forwarding address in writing — the 30-day clock effectively starts there.
- • Bad-faith withholding costs the landlord $100 + triple the amount withheld + attorney’s fees.
- • Justice court (small claims) handles disputes up to $20,000 — no lawyer needed.
Itemization: Itemized list of deductions required (unless rent is owed and undisputed). You must give a forwarding address.
Interest: No interest required.
Deposit cap: No statutory cap.
If they wrongfully withhold: Bad faith: $100 + 3x the amount wrongfully withheld + attorney’s fees.
Statute: Tex. Prop. Code §§ 92.101–.110
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and details vary by city and situation — verify current law or consult a local attorney or tenant’s rights organization before acting.