Lease Snipe

Texas Deposit Return Deadline

30 days

Under Texas law, a landlord generally has 30 days after move-out to return your security deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) — the FAQ below covers the conditions that can change the deadline.

Educational information: generated from our Texas law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.

How Texas compares

51 of 51 US jurisdictions set a statutory deadline for returning security deposits. Here is how Texas compares with other states in our database.

StateDeposit Return Deadline
Texas30 days
Utah30 days
Vermont14 days (60 for seasonal rentals)
Virginia45–60 days
Washington30 days

Frequently asked questions

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Texas?
Generally 30 days after move-out. No limit on amount, but must be returned within 30 days of move-out. Landlord must provide itemized list of deductions.
Can a Texas landlord keep my deposit for damages?
Landlords may generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, but must account for deductions. Deductions for ordinary wear and tear are not allowed.
What if my Texas landlord misses the deposit return deadline?
Missing the statutory deadline (30 days) can expose the landlord to statutory penalties. No limit on amount, but must be returned within 30 days of move-out. Landlord must provide itemized list of deductions.

Check Your Lease Against Texas Law

Not sure whether your lease complies with Texas law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.

Analyze My Lease Free

Educational tool — not legal advice. First analysis is free, no signup required.

More Texas lease law guides

Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Texas for your specific situation.