Texas Security Deposit Return Timeline (2026)

Your last month in a Texas apartment boils down to one envelope: full deposit back, or a letter explaining every deduction. State law gives landlords 30 days after you leave — miss that window and you may have leverage.

The 30-day rule

After you surrender keys and give a forwarding address, the landlord must:

1. Return the full deposit, or
2. Mail written itemized deductions plus any refund balance

No letter by day 30 → tenant remedies may include statutory penalties in bad-faith cases (consult a lawyer for your facts).

Normal wear vs damage

Usually wear (not deductible)	Often damage (deductible)
Faded paint from sun	Cigarette burns on blinds
Minor carpet matting	Large pet stains
Nail holes (small)	Broken interior doors

People often ask about mandatory professional cleaning. Read your lease — if it requires professional clean only if needed, a landlord cannot auto-deduct $200 without justification.

Document before you arrive and as you leave

• Move-in: photos/video dated, email summary to manager
• Move-out: same angles, plus meter readings and key return receipt
• Forwarding address in writing (email with read receipt works)

Utilities and final bills

Landlords sometimes deduct unpaid utility or water bills you owed directly. Keep final zero-balance confirmations.

Disputes

Send a certified letter referencing Property Code §92.103–§92.109 if you believe deductions are bogus. Justice of the peace courts handle small-dollar deposit fights in many counties.

Not legal advice

For complex cases (flood, mold, wrongful eviction), talk to a Texas tenant attorney. Overview: renters rights basics.

Statute starting point

• Texas Property Code Chapter 92