Texas Lease Addendums: What Renters Must Know

Signing a lease in Texas isn’t just about the basic rental terms—you’ll often find additional documents called lease addendums. These are extra rules or agreements your landlord might attach to the main lease. While many are standard, some can potentially impact your rights or responsibilities as a renter. Knowing what to watch for in lease addendums helps you make informed decisions before signing or renewing your Texas lease.

What Is a Lease Addendum?

A lease addendum is a legal document added to your main rental lease, changing or adding terms to your agreement. In Texas, addendums are enforceable if they don’t violate state law or your tenant rights under the Texas Property Code Chapter 92—Residential Tenancies.¹

Common Lease Addendums in Texas

Here are some addendums Texas renters frequently encounter—and what you should look for with each:

• Pet Addendum: Sets special rules, deposits, or fees if you keep pets.
• Mold Disclosure/Addendum: Details any known mold issues and assigns maintenance responsibilities.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required for properties built before 1978. Protects renters by informing about potential lead risks.
• Parking or Vehicle Addendum: Limits vehicles, designates assigned parking, or sets rules on use.
• Early Termination Addendum: Explains conditions and any fees for breaking the lease early.
• Utility Addendum: Specifies how utilities are billed and what happens if you fall behind.
• Right of Entry Addendum: Details when and how the landlord can enter your unit.
• Crime-Free Addendum: Sets out eviction rules for certain criminal activity on the premises.

Official Forms Related to Addendums

• Lead-Based Paint Addendum (EPA Form):
  Lead-Based Paint Disclosure—Leases (PDF)
  When used: Required by federal law if you rent a unit built before 1978. You (the renter) must receive this disclosure before signing the lease.

Some Texas landlords use standard forms from the Texas Real Estate Commission or Texas Apartment Association. Always ask to review any addendum before signing, and request copies for your records.

How Lease Addendums May Affect You

Not all addendums are the same. Some protect the property and your health while others might limit your privileges or expose you to extra charges or penalties. For example:

• Late Fee Addendum: Explains how much you’ll pay if your rent is late and how it’s calculated (see Texas Property Code 92.019).
• Maintenance Responsibility Addendum: May shift certain upkeep (e.g., yard work) onto you.

Always check addendums for language that could impact your safety, pocketbook, or rights. Don’t hesitate to request clarification from your landlord or property manager before you sign.

Your Rights and Protections

In Texas, addendums can’t take away basic tenant rights, such as your right to a safe and habitable home, proper notice before entry, or legal limits on certain fees. The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) and Texas Attorney General Tenants’ Rights Division oversee many aspects of landlord-tenant housing issues.

When to Seek Help

If an addendum seems unfair or violates Texas law, you can:

• Contact the Texas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division
• Consult the TREC or local legal aid office
• File a complaint if your landlord refuses to remove an illegal addendum

Many local agencies also offer free mediation for tenant-landlord disputes.

Official Tribunal Handling Tenancy Issues

In Texas, residential lease disputes often go before your local Justice of the Peace Court, which handles landlord-tenant matters, including eviction or lease enforcement.²

FAQ: Lease Addendums in Texas

1. Are addendums legally binding in Texas?
   Yes, as long as the addendum doesn't violate Texas law or your rights under the Texas Property Code. Both parties must sign for validity.
2. Can a landlord require a new addendum at renewal?
   Yes, a landlord may introduce new addendums when you renew your lease, but you are not required to accept them without agreement.
3. What should I do if I disagree with an addendum?
   Discuss your concerns with your landlord, and seek clarification or negotiate changes. For illegal or unreasonable terms, contact the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
4. Is a lead paint addendum mandatory in Texas?
   Yes, for leases involving properties built before 1978. Federal law requires you to receive and sign the disclosure.
5. Can a pet addendum be added after I sign my lease?
   Only with your written agreement. New addendums can't be forced mid-lease unless your main lease allows it.

Key Takeaways

• Lease addendums are common in Texas—always review them before signing.
• Official disclosures, like lead-based paint, are mandatory for certain rentals.
• If you’re unsure about an addendum's terms, contact state resources for support.

Staying informed about Texas lease addendums helps renters protect their rights and avoid unwanted surprises during their tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Texas Attorney General – Tenants’ Rights Resources
• Find Your Local Justice of the Peace Court (handles landlord-tenant disputes)
• Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Contact Info
• Read Texas Property Code Chapter 92—Residential Tenancies
• EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rules

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1. Texas Property Code Chapter 92—Residential Tenancies
2. Texas Justice of the Peace Courts—Landlord Tenant Information

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