Texas · Step-by-step guide
How to sign a compliant Texas lease.
A practical walkthrough of the six things a Texas landlord must get right, in order, before and after signing.
Start My Texas Lease →1. Confirm the deposit cap
No statutory cap. Statutory cite: Tex. Prop. Code § 92.103.
2. Set late-fee terms correctly
Must be reasonable; safe harbor at 12% (≤4 units) / 10% (>4 units) with 2-day grace Landlords generally must allow a 2-day grace period before assessing it.
3. Plan entry notice
Give at least 24 hours' notice before entering the unit outside an emergency.
4. Give correct termination notice
30 days (month-to-month) for a month-to-month tenancy.
5. Attach every required disclosure
Lead-based paint, Landlord/agent identity, Tenant rights (parking, towing), Special flood hazard (since 2022), Smoke alarm rights.
6. Return the deposit on time
30 days. Statutory cite: Tex. Prop. Code § 92.103.
Texas guide FAQs
- What order should a Texas landlord follow before signing a lease?
- Confirm the deposit cap, set a compliant late fee, plan entry-notice language, set the correct termination notice, attach every required disclosure, and confirm the deposit-return timeline — in that order.
- Where can I find the full list of Texas required disclosures?
- See the full disclosure list on the Texas state page, or browse disclosure requirements by topic across all states.