Student Renter Rights in Texas: What College Tenants Need to Know

Renting as a college student in Texas comes with unique challenges and rights. As a student renter, it's essential to understand your protections under Texas law, including matters like lease agreements, security deposits, repairs, and eviction. Knowing your rights helps you make informed decisions and avoid common disputes with landlords.

Understanding Student Housing Options in Texas

College renters in Texas typically rent off-campus apartments, houses, or rooms in private properties. Student tenants are covered by Texas state tenant laws, whether renting directly from a landlord, through a property manager, or leasing shared accommodations with roommates. However, campus-owned residence halls often have different rules; this article covers private, off-campus student rentals.

Your Key Rights as a Student Renter

Texas students renting private housing have the same legal rights as any other tenant under the Texas Property Code, Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies.^[1] Here are some of your main rights:

• Written Lease Protection: You are generally entitled to a written lease if the term is longer than one year, but it's a best practice regardless of the term. Make sure to read and understand your lease before signing.
• Security Deposit Rules: Landlords can require a security deposit, but they must return it within 30 days after you move out, minus certain allowed deductions. You should receive an itemized list of any deductions for damages.
• Right to Repairs: Landlords must make repairs needed to protect your health and safety, provided you submit a proper written request. Examples include HVAC or plumbing failure, or major leaks.
• Freedom from Retaliation: Landlords cannot evict or penalize you for asking for repairs or reporting code violations.

Special Note: Joint Leases and Roommates

Many students sign joint leases with roommates, meaning everyone is equally responsible for the entire rent and any damages. If a roommate leaves, remaining tenants are still responsible for full payment unless the landlord agrees to modify the lease.

Common Student Renter Issues and How to Address Them

Understanding how to handle typical rental issues can prevent bigger problems down the line. Here are the most common situations Texas student tenants face:

Maintenance and Repair Requests

• Document your request in writing. Texas law requires written notice for repairs that affect your health or safety.
• Give the landlord a reasonable time (usually seven days) to address the repair, unless your lease states otherwise.
• If repairs are not made, you may have rights to withhold rent, terminate the lease, or seek court remedies—but you should follow the law closely to avoid eviction.

Tip: Always take photos and keep records of repair requests and correspondence with your landlord for your protection.

Security Deposit Disputes

• After moving out, give your landlord your forwarding address in writing. The landlord has 30 days to refund your deposit or explain deductions in a written itemized list.
• If you disagree with deductions or the deposit is not returned, you can send a written demand letter and, if needed, consider filing a case in Justice Court (Small Claims Court).^[2]

Eviction and Lease Termination

• Landlords can only evict you through official court procedures. You must receive a written Notice to Vacate (usually at least three days, unless your lease states otherwise).
• If you must break your lease due to certain special circumstances (e.g., active military service or domestic violence with documentation), Texas law may offer some protections.

Remember, college renters in Texas share the same legal eviction protections as all residential tenants—there are no "special" eviction processes for students.

Official Forms for Texas Student Renters

• Security Deposit Demand Letter (No Official Number): Used if your landlord fails to return your security deposit within 30 days. Send a written letter stating your request and include your forwarding address. See sample language and requirements on the Texas Attorney General's Office official security deposit guidance.^[3]
• Repair Request Letter (No Official Number): Required to notify your landlord about needed repairs. Send via certified mail or keep a copy for records. Find guidance and a sample letter at Texas AG Tenant Repair Letter sample.^[3]
• Justice Court Petition (Small Claims): If your deposit is not returned or other disputes cannot be resolved, you may file a Petition in Justice Court. The required form and instructions vary by county; access general information and links to local courts on the Texas Office of Court Administration site.^[2]

If You Need Legal Help or to Make a Complaint

If informal communication with your landlord does not resolve your issue, you can consider the following steps:

• Contact a local legal aid service or on-campus legal clinic (offered by many Texas universities).
• File a complaint with your city’s code enforcement or housing office if repairs or safety concerns are not addressed.
• File a case in Justice Court for issues like withheld security deposits.

Texas Authority Over Rental Disputes

The Texas Justice Courts handle official residential tenancy disputes in Texas, including eviction (forcible entry and detainer), security deposit claims, and other small claims involving renters and landlords.

FAQ: Student Tenant Protections in Texas

1. Are student renters protected from sudden rent increases in Texas?
   Texas law does not limit rent increases except for federally subsidized housing. However, landlords must provide notice if required by your lease. Always check your lease for rent increase rules.
2. Can my landlord enter my rental unit without notice?
   Texas law does not set a specific notice period for entry. Most leases include entry policies. Generally, landlords should provide reasonable notice except in emergencies.
3. What actions should I take if I have an unresolved repair issue?
   Send a written repair request, keep documentation, and follow up as needed. If there is still no response, you may pursue remedies such as Justice Court action or lease termination, as Texas Property Code allows.
4. Do students face unique eviction rules?
   No. College renters are subject to the same eviction processes as all Texas tenants. A landlord must serve a proper notice and obtain a court order for eviction.
5. What if a roommate moves out early?
   If you signed a joint lease, remaining roommates are usually responsible for the full rent. Always discuss changes with your landlord and get any agreement in writing.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for College Renters in Texas

• Student renters have the same legal rights as all tenants under Texas law, including lease, deposit, and repair protections.
• Always keep written records of communications and use official forms or sample letters when necessary.
• Seek help from official resources if you have issues with deposits, repairs, or eviction notices.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Texas Attorney General – Tenants’ Rights Overview
• Texas Property Code, Chapter 92: Residential Tenancies
• Texas Justice Courts Directory (for filing small claims and eviction cases)
• For campus-specific help: Contact your university or college legal services or student affairs office.
• City housing offices: Check your local city website for tenant support or to report code violations.

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1. Texas Property Code, Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies
2. Texas Judicial Branch – Small Claims Court Information
3. Texas Attorney General – Tenant and Renter Rights

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