Arlington vs Fort Worth
How do security deposit rules rules compare between Arlington, TX and Fort Worth, TX?
Arlington and Fort Worth have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, TX
Tarrant County
Arlington landlords follow Texas Property Code §92.103, which requires return of a tenants security deposit within 30 days of move-out, accompanied by an itemized list of any deductions when the deposit is not refunded in full and the tenant has provided a forwarding address.
View full Arlington rules →Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Texas Property Code Sections 92.101 through 92.110 set statewide security-deposit rules. Fort Worth landlords must return the deposit within 30 days of move-out with an itemized list of deductions. The city has not adopted stricter local limits; state law preempts most local deposit regulation.
View full Fort Worth rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Fort Worth |
|---|---|---|
| Refund deadline | 30 days | - |
| Deposit cap | None | No statutory maximum |
| Bad-faith damages | 3x plus $100 | - |
| Forwarding address | Required | - |
| Return deadline | - | 30 days after move-out |
| Statute | - | TX Property Code 92.103 |
| Bad-faith penalty | - | Treble damages plus $100 |
| Forum | - | Tarrant County justice court |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
When must my Arlington landlord return my deposit?
Within 30 days after you surrender the unit and provide a written forwarding address, per Texas Property Code §92.103. Itemized deductions must accompany any partial refund.
Is there a cap on Arlington security deposits?
No. Texas does not cap deposit amounts, and Arlington has no city-specific cap. Most landlords charge one to two months rent based on credit screening.
Fort Worth FAQ
How long does my Fort Worth landlord have to return my deposit?
Thirty days from when you surrender the unit and give a written forwarding address. Without the forwarding address in writing, the 30-day clock does not start under Texas Property Code Section 92.107.
Can a Fort Worth landlord charge any deposit amount?
Yes. Texas sets no cap on security-deposit size, so two- or three-month deposits are legal. Fort Worth has not enacted local limits; market practice is typically one month's rent.
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