Deposit deductionsLease / breach liability
Section 92.104 ties deductions to amounts the tenant is legally liable for.
Normal wearExcluded
A security deposit cannot be retained for normal wear and tear.
ItemizationGenerally required
When deposit money is retained, the landlord generally must give a written description and itemized list.
Four questions to ask about a Texas move-out bill
- What exact lease provision or tenant-caused damage supports the charge?
- Is the condition ordinary deterioration from intended use or damage from negligence, carelessness, accident or abuse?
- Was the amount actually incurred or otherwise supported by records?
- If the charge was deducted from the deposit, did the landlord provide the required itemized accounting?
Evidence to compare
- Move-in condition forms and photos.
- Move-out photos or inspection records.
- Invoices, receipts, work orders or contractor estimates.
- The age and prior condition of carpet, paint, appliances or fixtures.
- Lease language for cleaning, reletting, utilities or other charges.
Keep the scope in mind. This guide summarizes the cited Texas statewide sources. Lease terms, subsidized-housing rules, local rules and the specific evidence can change the analysis of an individual dispute.
Official sources
Use these links to verify the rule directly. RentBillCheck prioritizes Texas statutes and state-agency materials over secondary summaries.
Texas Constitution and StatutesTexas Property Code § 92.104 — Retention of Security Deposit; Accounting ↗
Primary rules for lawful deductions, normal wear and tear, and written itemization when a landlord retains deposit money.
Texas Constitution and StatutesTexas Property Code § 92.001 — Definitions ↗Primary definition of normal wear and tear for Texas residential tenancies.
Office of the Attorney General of TexasRenter’s Rights ↗Official Texas consumer guidance summarizing deposits, itemized deductions, normal wear and tear and forwarding-address issues.