Landlord-tenant laws in the Lone Star State are generally landlord-friendly. First, there’s no limit on how much you may charge for a security deposit at the state level. Texas state laws also allow landlords and tenants to enter into their own agreements for repairs; landlords can refuse to pay for repairs if tenants are behind on rent payments.
Laws in the Texas housing market also favor rental property owners when lease conditions are violated. If you want to evict a tenant for not paying rent, you only have to provide a three-day written notice to pay or move out. If your tenant does neither at the end of the three days, you may go to the Justice of The Peace court in your jurisdiction and file for eviction (often this can be done online or via email, but check your local jurisdiction to make sure).
An eviction in Texas typically takes less than 30 days from notice to writ of possession.
Landlords can withhold the security deposit and return it to the tenant no later than 30 days from move-out and inspecting the property.
In order to fully protect yourself and your property we have 3 recommendations:
Interview and hire a seasoned Property Manager
Ensure the use of industry-standard lease forms (Texas Realtors or Texas Apartment Association)
Keep in regular contact with your property manager.