Texas security deposit law: 30 days to return it, and the penalty
How long a landlord has to return a security deposit in Texas, what must be sent, and the penalty, read in Texas Property Code Sections 92.103, 92.107 and 92.109.
The deadline
The landlord must refund the deposit on or before the 30th day after you surrender the premises.
The landlord does not have to return it until you give your forwarding address in writing.
The penalty
A landlord who keeps a deposit in bad faith owes $100, three times the amount wrongfully withheld, and reasonable attorney's fees.
A landlord who in bad faith does not send a written description and itemized list of deductions loses the right to keep any part of the deposit. The landlord must prove that any deduction was reasonable.
What to do
Send a written demand that cites the law, by certified mail or email, and keep proof. If the landlord does not pay, you can file in small claims court in the county of the rental.
Source: Texas Property Code Sections 92.103, 92.107 and 92.109, read on November 3, 2026.