Texas (TX) law guide
Texas is one of the most landlord-friendly states in the country. There is no statewide rent control, no statutory cap on security deposits, and a relatively streamlined eviction process. The rules that follow govern deposits, notices, and evictions for residential tenancies under the Texas Property Code.
Security deposit limit
No statutory cap
Deposit return deadline
30 days after move-out (with forwarding address)
Statewide rent control
None
Nonpayment eviction notice
3-day notice to vacate (lease may vary)
Texas rental market snapshot
Population
30.5 million
Renter households
~38% of households rent
Median rent
~$1,450 (2BR)
Largest rental markets
Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth
Texas pairs fast population growth with a landlord-friendly legal framework: no rent control, no deposit cap, and one of the quicker eviction timelines in the country.
Texas does not cap the amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit. The market and the lease set the amount.
After a tenant moves out, the landlord must refund the deposit, less any lawful deductions, within 30 days. The tenant must provide a forwarding address for the refund obligation to apply. If the landlord withholds part of the deposit, an itemized list of deductions is generally required.
There is no statewide rent control in Texas and no cap on how much rent can be increased. For a month-to-month tenancy, a landlord generally provides at least 30 days written notice before raising the rent. For a fixed-term lease, rent cannot be raised mid-term unless the lease allows it.
Before filing an eviction suit, a Texas landlord must deliver a written notice to vacate. The default period is at least 3 days, though the lease may specify a different length.
If the tenant does not move out, the landlord files a forcible detainer (eviction) suit in justice court. Texas evictions move relatively quickly, but the landlord must follow the statutory steps; self-help measures such as changing locks or shutting off utilities are restricted by statute.
Even in a landlord-friendly state, landlords must make a diligent effort to repair conditions that materially affect health or safety after proper notice, and there are statutory rules around security devices like locks and smoke alarms.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Governing statute: Texas Property Code, Chapters 91, 92, and 24. Laws change; confirm the current statute or consult an attorney before acting. Last reviewed 2026-06-04.
Texas FAQ
No. Texas does not cap security deposits; the amount is set by the lease and the market.
Within 30 days after the tenant moves out, provided the tenant gave a forwarding address.
Yes. There is no statewide rent control. For month-to-month tenancies, landlords generally give at least 30 days notice; fixed-term rent cannot change mid-lease unless the lease allows it.
At least a 3-day written notice to vacate by default, unless the lease specifies a different period.
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