How to Write a Demand Letter to a Texas Landlord

Dealing with a landlord dispute in Texas—such as unresolved repairs, deposit disagreements, or unsafe conditions—can be challenging. One of the most effective first steps is writing a demand letter. This formal notice gives your landlord a chance to address your concerns and is often required before you can take legal action. In this guide, you’ll learn how to draft an effective demand letter under Texas law, when to use official forms, and where to get help if you need it.

What is a Demand Letter and Why Does It Matter in Texas?

A demand letter is a written request that tells your landlord what’s wrong and what you want them to do. In Texas, a demand letter can help resolve issues without going to court—and is sometimes required by law or before seeking help from the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. It also creates a paper trail that will help if you need to escalate your complaint.

Common Reasons to Send a Demand Letter

• Unfulfilled repair or maintenance requests
• Return of security deposit
• Unauthorized rent increases
• Unsafe or uninhabitable conditions
• Breach of lease or rental agreement

In Texas, renters are protected under the Texas Property Code, Chapter 92: Residential Tenancies, which covers major renter rights, required repairs, and landlord obligations.^[1]

How to Write a Demand Letter: Key Elements

Your demand letter does not need to be complicated, but it should be respectful, clear, and include specific details. Use the checklist below to make sure you cover all required elements.

• Date: When you are sending the letter
• Your name and address: So the landlord knows who you are
• Landlord’s name and address
• A clear description of the problem: For example, “The plumbing in the kitchen sink has not worked since June 1st.”
• What you want the landlord to do: Such as “Complete repairs within 7 days” or “Return $1,000 security deposit”
• A deadline: Reasonable, typically 7–10 days
• Your contact information
• A polite but firm closing

Texas Form: Request for Repairs (Sample Letter)

For repair issues, Texas law encourages a written repair request. While there is no official state “demand letter” form, the Sample Repair Request Letter from the Texas Attorney General can help. Download, complete, and send this letter by certified mail with return receipt requested for tracking.

• Form Name: Sample Repair Request Letter
• When to use: If your landlord is not fixing something that impacts health/safety (like plumbing, heat, electricity)
• How to use: Fill out the letter, specify the problem, keep a copy for your records and mail it to your landlord.
• Official form link: Sample Repair Request Letter

Step-by-Step: Sending a Demand Letter in Texas

Organize your documentation and follow these steps to ensure your letter is effective:

• Write your demand letter or use the Texas Sample Repair Request Letter if relevant.
• Include copies (not originals) of any supporting documents, such as photos, prior requests, or lease agreements.
• Mail the letter by certified mail, return receipt requested.
• Keep a copy of everything for your records.
• Give your landlord time to respond—typically 7 to 10 days.

If your issue is not resolved, you may file a formal complaint or take additional legal action. For issues with repairs or retaliation, you may contact the Texas Attorney General’s Tenant Rights Division for further guidance.

What Happens If the Landlord Ignores Your Letter?

If your landlord does not respond to your demand letter, you may be able to:

• File a complaint with the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
• Pursue a claim in your local Texas Justice Court (small claims court)
• Seek legal aid or mediation from local advocacy organizations

Be sure to retain all proof of your written demand and any responses received—this may be vital if the situation escalates.

FAQ: Texas Demand Letters for Renters

1. Do I have to use a specific form for my demand letter in Texas?
   No, Texas law does not require a specific form for all demand letters. However, using the Sample Repair Request Letter is strongly recommended for repair issues and creates a clear paper trail.
2. How long should I give my landlord to fix the problem after sending a demand letter?
   A 7–10 day deadline is common, but Texas law may require more or less time depending on the issue. For health and safety repairs, "reasonable time" is required under Texas Property Code Chapter 92.
3. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn’t make repairs?
   No. Withholding rent can result in eviction. Instead, follow the legal steps in Texas Property Code Section 92.056 to request repairs. Only with court approval after following procedures can you deduct or use repairs as payment.
4. Where can I file a complaint if my landlord still won’t help?
   Contact the Texas Attorney General’s Tenant Rights Division or your local Justice Court for guidance.
5. Does sending a demand letter protect me from retaliation?
   Texas law provides protection against landlord retaliation for requesting repairs or asserting your rights under Section 92.331. Keep all written correspondence as backup.

Key Takeaways

• Always write and send your demand letter by certified mail for proof of delivery.
• Use clear, polite language, include all facts, and keep copies of everything.
• If the landlord does not respond, contact the Texas Attorney General or file in Justice Court.

Remember, a demand letter can often resolve issues without further dispute and may be required before taking formal action.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Texas

• Texas Attorney General: Tenant Rights & Protections – Official guidance for Texas renters
• Texas Property Code Chapter 92: Residential Tenancies – Full text of Texas rental laws
• Texas Justice Court Directory – Small claims courts for rental disputes
• Texas Law Help: Housing – Free legal information for Texas tenants

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1. Texas Property Code, Chapter 92: Residential Tenancies
2. Texas Attorney General – Sample Repair Request Letter
3. Texas Attorney General – Tenant Rights

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