Texas is generally considered a landlord-friendly state, but renters have more protections than most people realize. Here's what you should know.
Security deposits
Your landlord has 30 days after move-out to return your deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions. They can deduct for damages beyond normal wear and tear, but not for things like faded paint, minor nail holes, or carpet wear from normal use. If they don't return it within 30 days, you can sue for up to 3x the deposit plus $100 and attorney fees.
Repairs
Texas Property Code Section 92.052 requires landlords to make a diligent effort to repair conditions that materially affect your health or safety — think: no hot water, broken locks, pest infestations. You must give written notice and allow reasonable time. If they don't act, you have remedies including repair-and-deduct (with specific conditions).
Lease breaks
Texas doesn't have a general right to break a lease early without penalty. However, there are exceptions for military deployment (SCRA), domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault (with documentation), and certain habitability failures. Some landlords will negotiate an early termination fee — typically 1-2 months' rent — but they're not required to.
Retaliation
If you report a code violation or exercise a legal right, your landlord cannot retaliate by raising rent, reducing services, or filing for eviction within 6 months. Texas Property Code Section 92.331.
At Luxia, we publish our full fee schedule upfront and handle deposits per the law. If you ever have a question about your rights as a resident, your community manager can point you to the right resources.