Travis County, TX Rental Property Rules: Security Deposit Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Return deadline
- 30 days
- Deposit cap
- None
- Bad-faith penalty
- 3x deposit + $100 + fees
- Itemization required
- Yes, written
Summary
Texas Property Code 92.103 requires landlords to return tenant security deposits, with itemized deductions, within 30 days of move-out. Travis County follows state rules; willful retention exposes landlords to triple-damages liability.
Sec. 92.103. OBLIGATION TO REFUND. (a) Except as provided by Section 92.107, the landlord shall refund a security deposit to the tenant on or before the 30th day after the date the tenant surrenders the premises. Sec. 92.104. RETENTION OF SECURITY DEPOSIT; ACCOUNTING. (a) Before returning a security deposit, the landlord may deduct from the deposit damages and charges for which the tenant is legally liable under the lease or as a result of breaching the lease. Sec. 92.109. LIABILITY OF LANDLORD. (a) A landlord who in bad faith retains a security deposit in violation of this subchapter is liable for an amount equal to the sum of $100, three times the portion of the deposit wrongfully withheld, and the tenant's reasonable attorney's fees in a suit to recover the deposit.
Full Breakdown
Under Texas Property Code 92.103, a landlord must refund a security deposit and provide a written itemized list of deductions within 30 days after the tenant surrenders possession and provides a forwarding address. Section 92.109 imposes treble damages plus 100 dollars and attorney fees if a landlord acts in bad faith. Texas does not cap deposit amounts. Travis County imposes no additional county rules. Tenants without a forwarding address lose the strict 30-day clock but retain their right to the deposit minus lawful deductions for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear.
Violations & Fines
Bad-faith retention of a security deposit triggers Texas Property Code 92.109 treble damages plus 100 dollars and reasonable attorney fees in district court.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does my Travis County landlord have to return my deposit?
Is there a Texas deposit cap?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Travis County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Travis County to another location·View the Texas rental property rules overview
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