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TX Security deposit Reviewed August 2026

Texas security deposit rules

Texas does not cap security deposit amounts, but landlords must return the deposit (minus itemized deductions) within 30 days of move-out and a written forwarding address.

By the LeaseRooster Team

Key facts

  • § 92.103 30 days after surrender
On this page

Maximum deposit amount

Texas places no statutory cap on the size of a residential security deposit. The amount is whatever the lease specifies.

Return timeline

Texas Property Code § 92.1031

30 days after surrender + forwarding address

The landlord must refund the deposit within 30 days after the tenant surrenders the unit and provides a written forwarding address.

Itemized deductions

§ 92.104

written itemized list required

If deductions are taken, the landlord must give the tenant a written itemized list of damages and the deposit balance returned.

  1. § 92.103 30 days after surrender

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This is information, not legal advice. Rules change, and how they apply depends on your property and your tenancy. Read the official source for yourself, and talk to an attorney in your state before you rely on anything here.

Security deposit in other states

  1. How to Return a Security Deposit Electronically in California (AB 414, 2026 update)

    AB 414 requires California landlords to refund a security deposit electronically when the tenant paid electronically, effective January 1, 2026. Here is the rule, the multiple-tenant payout requirement, and what to change in your move-out process.     Civil Code § 1950.5 3 min read Reviewed Jul 2026

  2. California Security Deposit Rules: What AB 12 Changed

    AB 12 cut California's security deposit cap to one month's rent for most unfurnished rentals, effective July 1, 2024. Landlords must return the deposit within 21 days with an itemized statement. Here is what changed, what counts toward the cap, and how to stay on the right side of the law.     Civil Code § 1950.5(c) 5 min read Reviewed Jun 2026

  3. California Pre-Move-Out Inspection: What Landlords Must Offer

    California law gives tenants the right to a pre-move-out inspection before they vacate. The landlord must provide a written list of any deficiencies found, and the tenant gets the chance to fix them before the final move-out. What is not on the list generally cannot be deducted from the deposit.     Civil Code § 1950.5(f) 6 min read Reviewed Jun 2026

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