Rental agreement › United States › Texas
Texas rental agreement — laws, template & free PDF
A Texas rental agreement is a residential tenancy contract governed by Texas landlord-tenant law. This guide summarizes the current rules on security deposits, notice, entry and disclosures, and lets you download a free PDF pre-filled with Texas defaults.
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Texas landlord-tenant law at a glance
| Security deposit cap | No statutory limit |
|---|---|
| Deposit return deadline | 30 days |
| Entry notice required | Not specified |
| Month-to-month termination | 30 days |
| Late fee rule | Cap: 12% (≤4 units), 10% (>4); 2-day grace |
| Rent control | Prohibited statewide |
| Small claims limit | $20,000 |
Mandatory disclosures for Texas landlords
- Lead paint
- Special flood hazard
- Parking rules
Landlords who fail to provide a required disclosure expose themselves to statutory damages and can lose their right to evict until the disclosure is corrected.
Security deposit handling
Under Texas law, the security deposit is capped at No statutory limit and must be returned within 30 days after the tenant vacates the premises, minus any lawful deductions for unpaid rent or damage beyond ordinary wear and tear. A landlord who fails to comply with the statutory deadline may forfeit the right to make any deductions and — in several states — face double or triple damages.
For the full side-by-side, see our security deposit rules by state guide.
Late fees in Texas
Cap: 12% (≤4 units), 10% (>4); 2-day grace. The late fee clause must appear in the signed lease — a landlord cannot impose a fee that was not agreed to in writing. See our late fee clause guide for drafting examples.
Ending a month-to-month tenancy
Either party may end a month-to-month tenancy in Texas with 30 days written notice. For cause-based termination (non-payment, lease violations), see our eviction notice guide.
Neighbouring states
New Mexico
Oklahoma
Arkansas
Louisiana
Compare rental agreement rules in all 50 US states →
Frequently asked questions
How much security deposit can a landlord charge in Texas?
In Texas, the statutory limit is No statutory limit. The deposit must be returned within 30 days after the tenant vacates and provides a forwarding address.
How much notice is required to end a month-to-month tenancy in Texas?
30 days written notice is the standard in Texas for either party to end a month-to-month tenancy, subject to any local rent-control rules.
Does Texas have rent control?
Prohibited statewide.
How much entry notice must a landlord give in Texas?
Texas requires Not specified of notice before a landlord can enter, except in emergencies.