Texas
11.4 million Hispanics
Summary: renting in Texas
Texas has no statewide rent control, but it offers specific protections for security deposits and eviction processes.
Renting in Texas as part of the Hispanic community — which numbers over 11.4 million people in this state — can be a positive experience if you know your rights. The Texas Property Code is the main law governing the relationship between tenants and landlords, setting clear rules around security deposits and eviction processes. While Texas does not cap the amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit, the law does require landlords to return it within 30 days of move-out, as long as you provide your new address in writing.
One of the most important things to understand is that Texas has no statewide rent control, meaning landlords have considerable freedom to adjust rental prices when leases are renewed. On top of that, if you receive an eviction notice, the timeframe can be as short as 3 days, leaving very little time to respond. Understanding these realities from the start allows you to make informed decisions, document everything properly, and seek help in time if any housing issue arises during your tenancy in Texas.
Main law: Texas Property Code
Maximum deposit
No state limit
Eviction notice
3 days
Rent control
No statewide rent control
💡 Tip for Texas
The landlord has 30 days to return your deposit. Always give your new address in writing when you move out.
⚠️ Common problem to avoid
Fast evictions: the notice can be as short as 3 days, so act immediately if you receive one.
Security deposit in Texas
In Texas, the Texas Property Code does not set a statewide limit on security deposits, so the amount can vary depending on the landlord and property. What is required by law is that your landlord return your deposit — or a written, itemized list of deductions — within 30 days of your move-out date. To protect your money, always request a written receipt for your deposit, take date-stamped photos when you move in and when you move out, and make sure to provide your new address in writing when you vacate the unit.
The eviction process in Texas
In Texas, the eviction process can move very quickly. Under the Texas Property Code, a landlord can serve you an eviction notice with as little as 3 days' notice before filing a legal case. If you receive such a notice, do not ignore it or wait — act immediately. Seek free legal advice, review whether the notice meets all formal requirements, and consider whether you have valid grounds to respond. Ignoring an eviction notice in Texas can result in a court order that negatively affects your housing record for years to come.
Rent and increases in Texas
Texas has no statewide rent control, meaning there is no law limiting how much a landlord can raise your rent when your lease is up for renewal. Rent increases are legal as long as proper notice is given according to the terms of your lease. Some Texas cities have attempted to establish local housing policies, but state law limits that ability. We recommend checking with local resources to see if your city has any specific regulations, and always negotiate any rent changes in writing before signing a new or renewed lease agreement.
Practical checklist for tenants in Texas
- Read your entire lease agreement before signing and keep a signed copy stored in a safe place.
- Take date-stamped photos when moving in and moving out to document the condition of the property.
- Provide your new address in writing to your landlord when you move out to ensure deposit return within 30 days.
- If you receive a 3-day eviction notice, seek free legal advice immediately — do not wait or ignore it.
- Report any housing discrimination to HUD by calling 1-800-669-9777 or contacting your local Fair Housing office.
- Call 2-1-1 in Texas to find rent assistance resources, free legal help, and other housing support services near you.
Key tenant rights in Texas
- • Right to a habitable and safe home
- • Protection against housing discrimination
- • Right to privacy (notice before the landlord enters)
- • Protection against retaliation for legitimate complaints
- • Right to the return of the security deposit
Do you have a problem with your landlord in Texas? Follow these steps
- 1
Document everything: keep your lease, payment receipts, and take dated photos of any problem in the home.
- 2
Always notify your landlord in writing (text message, email, or letter) and keep a copy. Verbal messages do not work as proof.
- 3
If the landlord does not respond, seek free legal help for Texas tenants. Many organizations advise you at no cost.
- 4
Call 2-1-1 to find local housing resources and assistance in your area, available in Spanish.
- 5
If you suffered discrimination, report it for free to HUD by calling 1-800-669-9777.
Frequently asked questions about Texas
If you need help in Texas, dial 2-1-1 to connect with local rent assistance and housing services. Organizations like Lone Star Legal Aid and Texas RioGrande Legal Aid offer free legal advice for low-income tenants. If you believe you have been discriminated against based on your national origin, language, or ethnicity, contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or reach out to your local Fair Housing office. Do not face housing problems alone — resources are available in Spanish to support you every step of the way.
How much can the landlord ask me for a security deposit in Texas?
In Texas, the security deposit limit is: No state limit. Always keep the payment receipt and take photos of the home condition when you move in to protect your money.
How much notice can they give me before eviction in Texas?
The typical eviction notice in Texas is 3 days. Never ignore a notice: respond immediately and seek free legal help if you believe the eviction is unfair.
Is there rent control in Texas?
About rent control in Texas: No statewide rent control. Even if there is no state control, some cities have their own rules, so check the local ordinance.
What is the main law that protects me as a tenant in Texas?
The key law in Texas is the Texas Property Code. This rule defines your basic rights over habitability, deposits, repairs, and the eviction process.
Resources in Texas
- • Call 2-1-1 for local resources
- • Free legal help for Texas tenants
- • HUD — Discrimination complaints
Need a letter?
Download free model letters and documents to claim your deposit, request repairs, and more.
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