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Owning rental property in Corpus Christi can be a strong long-term investment, but only if you understand the legal responsibilities that come with being a landlord in Texas. While Texas is often considered landlord-friendly, property owners must still follow specific rules regarding security deposits, repairs, notices, evictions, and fair housing compliance. Failing to follow these laws can lead to costly disputes, court filings, and unnecessary stress. Whether you are a first-time landlord or growing your rental portfolio, understanding Texas landlord laws is essential to protecting both your income and your property.
Key Takeaways
Texas law outlines clear rules for security deposits, repairs, notices, and evictions.
Corpus Christi landlords must follow proper legal procedures when removing a tenant.
Lease agreements should clearly define responsibilities and comply with Texas property code.
Fair Housing laws apply to all rental property owners.
Working with a professional property manager helps ensure ongoing compliance and risk reduction.
Security Deposit Rules in Texas
Security deposits are one of the most common areas of conflict between landlords and tenants. Texas law provides specific guidance on how they must be handled.
Texas does not limit the amount you can charge for a security deposit. However, once a tenant moves out and provides a forwarding address, you must return the deposit within 30 days. If you withhold any portion of the deposit, you are required to provide a written, itemized list of deductions.
Deductions may include:
Unpaid rent
Damage beyond normal wear and tear
Cleaning costs if the unit is left excessively dirty
Repair of lease violations
Normal wear and tear cannot legally be deducted. Charging for routine aging of carpet or minor scuff marks could expose you to legal claims. Clear documentation, including move-in and move-out inspections with photos, is critical for protecting yourself.
Repair and Maintenance Responsibilities
Texas landlords must address conditions that materially affect the physical health or safety of tenants. This includes serious plumbing issues, electrical hazards, roof leaks, heating and cooling failures, and structural concerns.
Tenants are required to notify you of repair issues, typically in writing. Once notified, you must make a diligent effort to resolve the problem within a reasonable timeframe. Failing to do so may allow tenants to pursue legal remedies, including repair and deduct options under certain conditions.
In Corpus Christi, maintenance can be especially important due to coastal weather conditions. Salt air corrosion, hurricane risks, heavy rain, and high humidity can accelerate property wear. Staying proactive with inspections and preventative maintenance helps you avoid emergency repairs and legal exposure.
Your lease should clearly define maintenance responsibilities, especially regarding:
Lawn care
Air filter changes
Pest control
Minor plumbing clogs
Clear expectations reduce disputes and confusion.
Right of Entry and Notice Requirements
Texas law does not specify an exact required notice period for landlord entry. Instead, entry rights are typically governed by the lease agreement.
To protect yourself, your lease should clearly state:
When you may enter the property
How much notice you will provide
Emergency access rights
Reasonable notice is considered best practice, often 24 hours, except in emergencies such as fire, flooding, or urgent repairs. Entering a property improperly can create legal disputes and damage landlord-tenant relationships.
Evictions in Corpus Christi and Nueces County
Evictions must follow a strict legal process in Texas. You cannot remove a tenant, change locks improperly, or shut off utilities to force them out.
For nonpayment of rent, Texas law generally requires you to issue a written Notice to Vacate before filing an eviction lawsuit. The standard notice period is three days unless the lease specifies otherwise.
If the tenant does not comply, you must file an eviction case with the appropriate Justice of the Peace Court in Nueces County. A court hearing will be scheduled, and if the court rules in your favor, a writ of possession may be issued if the tenant does not vacate voluntarily.
Even small errors in notices or paperwork can delay the eviction process. Proper documentation and strict adherence to timelines are essential.
Lease Agreement Requirements
While Texas does not require a written lease for tenancies longer than one year, having a comprehensive written lease agreement is critical for protecting your interests.
A strong Texas lease should include:
Rent amount and due date
Late fee policy that complies with Texas law
Security deposit terms
Repair procedures
Property rules and restrictions
Pet policies
Occupancy limits
Default and termination terms
Texas law also requires certain disclosures, including information about floodplains in some situations. In a coastal city like Corpus Christi, flood risk awareness is particularly important for both owners and tenants.
Using a generic lease template that does not reflect Texas property code can leave you exposed.
Fair Housing Compliance
All Corpus Christi landlords must comply with the federal Fair Housing Act. This law prohibits discrimination based on:
Race
Color
Religion
Sex
National origin
Familial status
Disability
Texas landlords must apply screening criteria consistently to every applicant. Advertising language, screening standards, and approval decisions must be objective and documented.
For example, you cannot:
Refuse families with children
Set different standards based on protected characteristics
Advertise preferences for certain groups
Fair Housing violations can result in severe financial penalties and legal action. Maintaining written screening criteria and consistent procedures helps reduce risk.
Handling Abandoned Property and Lockouts
Texas has specific rules regarding lock changes for nonpayment of rent. Landlords may change locks in certain circumstances, but they must follow strict notice requirements and provide tenants with access to retrieve their belongings.
Improper lockouts or mishandling abandoned property can lead to legal consequences. Understanding these technical details is essential before taking action.
Because eviction and lockout laws are highly procedural, many landlords choose professional guidance when dealing with tenant removal.
Why Legal Compliance Protects Your Investment
Understanding Texas landlord laws is not just about avoiding lawsuits. It is about protecting your income stream, preserving your property’s value, and maintaining professional tenant relationships.
When you follow the law:
Tenants are more likely to respect lease terms
Disputes are easier to resolve
Court filings are less likely
Your property maintains long-term stability
In a competitive rental market like Corpus Christi, professionalism sets you apart.
Frequently Asked Questions about Texas Landlord Laws
How long do I have to return a security deposit in Texas?
You must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenant moves out and provides a forwarding address. If deductions are made, you must include an itemized list.
Can I evict a tenant immediately for not paying rent?
No. You must first provide a written Notice to Vacate, typically giving at least three days unless the lease states otherwise. Only after that period can you file an eviction case in court.
Do I have to make all repairs requested by a tenant?
You are required to repair conditions that materially affect health or safety. Minor cosmetic issues may not qualify, but serious maintenance concerns must be addressed promptly.
Can I enter my rental property whenever I want?
Entry rules should be clearly defined in your lease. While Texas law does not set a strict notice requirement, reasonable notice is best practice except in emergencies.
Do I need a written lease in Texas?
While some short-term arrangements may not require one, a written lease agreement is strongly recommended to protect both you and your tenant.
Protect Your Corpus Christi Rental with the Right Legal Foundation
Texas landlord laws provide flexibility for property owners, but they also require precision and compliance. From security deposits and maintenance responsibilities to evictions and fair housing rules, every detail matters when managing rental property in Corpus Christi.
At Amy Willis & Associates, we help rental property owners stay compliant with Texas law while maximizing their investment performance. We handle tenant placement, lease agreements, rent collection, maintenance coordination, and legal processes with professionalism and local expertise. If you want peace of mind and full-service residential property management in Corpus Christi, contact Amy Willis & Associates today and let us protect your investment the right way.
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