Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Texas

Hi I was a renter in Dallas, TX. My landlord has sent me a list of items that he wanted repaired upon move out. While I am willing to pay for some of them, some of them some of them I think he is just trying to get money out of me (i.e locks that were broken when I moved in, and charging us for burnt out light bulbs). I really do not want to go to court if I do not have to, but it looks like he is giving me no other choice. Does anyone know Texas rental law? My security deposit was $1,900 and he is asking for it and then some. What would my worst case scenario be? Thanks for your time!


Asked on 10/11/11, 8:22 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Carl Weinkauf Carl Weinkauf & Associates

Take a look at Chapter 92 of the Texas Property Code. He is only entitled to deduct from your security deposit for damages other than normal wear and tear. Burned out light bulbs are normal wear and tear, as are scuff marks and things of that nature. If you have already move out and he has improperly withheld money from your security deposit, you may be entitled to additional damages on top of the amounts he improperly withheld. Sincerely, Carl Weinkauf

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Answered on 10/12/11, 2:35 pm


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