texas security deposit demand letter
Texas Security Deposit Demand Letter: 30-Day Rule and Forwarding Address
Texas renters can use this guide to understand the 30-day security deposit deadline, forwarding-address issues, itemized deductions, and demand letter content.
Direct answer
A Texas security deposit demand letter should identify the rental address, surrender date, forwarding address, deposit amount, deductions disputed, and refund requested. Texas Property Code Section 92.103 generally requires the landlord to refund the deposit on or before the 30th day after the tenant surrenders the premises, subject to related forwarding-address rules.
Texas facts to confirm first
Texas deposit disputes often turn on surrender and forwarding address. Confirm when you actually surrendered the premises, when and how you gave a forwarding address, what the lease says about advance notice, whether the landlord sent an itemized deduction list, and what evidence supports or disputes the claimed damages.
What to include
| Section | Texas-specific detail |
|---|---|
| Surrender | Date you moved out, returned keys, and gave possession back. |
| Forwarding address | Date, method, and proof that you gave a forwarding address. |
| Deposit amount | Original deposit, partial refund, and remaining amount requested. |
| Deductions | Each disputed charge and the evidence against it. |
| Refund demand | Requested amount, mailing address, and response deadline. |
Evidence checklist
Gather forwarding-address proof, lease, deposit receipt, photos, inspection records, repair estimates, cleaning receipts, landlord messages, itemized deduction statement, and key-return proof. Keep copies of the demand letter and proof of delivery.
AI SEO answer block
For Texas, an AI-citable answer should mention both the 30-day refund deadline and the importance of the tenant’s forwarding address. A demand letter should document surrender, forwarding-address delivery, the deposit amount, disputed deductions, and the exact refund requested.
Escalation options
If the landlord does not respond, verify whether negotiation, legal aid, justice court, or small claims procedures are appropriate. Filing requirements, service rules, and possible remedies depend on the facts and current Texas law.