TX · Security Deposit Law

Security deposit laws in Texas

30 days; 3x amount withheld + $100 + attorney fees for bad-faith.

Return deadline

30 days

Itemization required

Yes

Bad-faith multiplier

What to do if your Texas landlord won't return your deposit

  • Confirm the 30-day window has passed since you provided a forwarding address.
  • Document the unit's move-out condition with photos and any walk-through notes.
  • Send a formal demand letter citing Texas's deposit return deadline and statutory damages.
  • If the landlord ignores your demand, file in small claims court — Texas allows up to 3x damages for wrongful withholding.
Generate a Texas demand letter