Texas Rent Control Laws: 2025 Renter’s Guide

If you're a renter in Texas, understanding your rights regarding rent increases and stabilization is important. With new renters moving into Texas cities and concerns over affordability, many ask whether Texas has rent control laws and what protections are offered for rising rent costs. This guide, updated for 2025, provides clear, official information for Texas renters, including options if you’re facing large rent hikes or other challenges.

Is There Rent Control in Texas?

As of 2025, Texas does not have statewide rent control. In fact, Texas law prevents cities and counties from establishing their own local rent control ordinances except in very limited emergency circumstances. This means landlords can generally set rents and increase them as they choose—subject to the terms of your lease agreement.

What Is Rent Control?

Rent control refers to laws that limit how much a landlord can raise rent each year, aiming to keep homes more affordable. In Texas, these protections are not available to renters, with few exceptions.

What Rules Apply to Rent Increases in Texas?

While Texas does not restrict the amount or timing of rent increases for most residential properties, landlords must follow the terms of your lease and provide proper notice before any increase takes effect:

• Month-to-month tenancy: Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase.
• Fixed-term leases (e.g., 12 months): Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless a rent escalation provision is written into your lease.

All notices must comply with the Texas Property Code. More details can be found on the Texas Property Code Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies.¹

Are There Any Exceptions or Emergency Controls?

The only circumstances where Texas permits rent control is following a declared disaster that leads to a local housing emergency, and only if specifically authorized by the state governor or legislature. Even then, such measures are rare and temporary.²

Your Rights If Facing a Rent Increase

If you receive notice of a rent increase and have concerns:

• Check your lease to confirm whether the increase is allowed under your current agreement
• Review the notice period provided by your landlord
• Ask your landlord to put any notice or changes in writing
• If you wish to negotiate or cannot afford the increase, contact your landlord in writing to discuss options
• Seek free advice from Texas tenant advocacy organizations or your local legal aid

Official Forms for Texas Renters

While there is no state-mandated rent dispute form, these official documents may help Texas renters:

• Notice to Vacate (Form No. N/A): Used by a landlord to request a tenant leave the property. If you decide not to accept a rent increase, you may need to give written notice to your landlord according to lease or state law. See sample language and guidance on the TexasLawHelp sample Notice to Vacate.
• Tenant Complaint Form (Consumer Complaint): Used by renters to report possible landlord violations to the Texas Attorney General. This is available online at File a Consumer Complaint with the Texas Attorney General. Example: If your landlord threatens eviction for questioning a rent increase, you may file this complaint.

Practical example: If your landlord raises your rent with less than 30 days’ notice in a month-to-month arrangement, you can use the Consumer Complaint form to report a possible violation.

Which Tribunal Handles Residential Tenancy Issues in Texas?

Texas does not have a specialized tenancy tribunal or housing court. Most rental disputes are handled in local Justice of the Peace Courts. To learn more or to locate your local court, visit the Texas Courts – Find Your Local Justice Court directory.³

Key Texas Tenancy Legislation

• Texas Property Code Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies¹
• Texas Local Government Code §214.902 – Rent Control Prohibited²

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Texas have any form of rent control or rent stabilization in 2025?
   No, Texas law prohibits rent control and stabilization except in rare, declared housing emergencies.
2. How much notice does a landlord need to give before increasing rent in Texas?
   Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice for rent increases on month-to-month leases.
3. Can I challenge a rent increase in Texas?
   There are no formal limits on how much rent can be increased, but you can review your lease and file a complaint if notice requirements are not met.
4. Are there official state forms to dispute rent increases?
   There is no dedicated rent increase dispute form, but you may file a Consumer Complaint with the Texas Attorney General if you suspect landlord violations.
5. Which court handles landlord-tenant disputes in Texas?
   Justice of the Peace Courts handle most landlord-tenant disputes in Texas.

Key Takeaways for Texas Renters

• Texas law does not offer rent control outside of emergencies
• Landlords must provide proper notice before rent increases on month-to-month leases
• Disputes are typically resolved through local Justice Courts or the Attorney General’s office

Remember: Always read your lease and keep a paper trail for any rent changes or complaints.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Texas Attorney General – Landlord and Tenant Rights
• TexasLawHelp – Tenants’ Rights in Texas
• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs – Renters’ Resources
• Find Your Local Justice Court

---

1. Texas Property Code Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies
2. Texas Local Government Code §214.902 – Rent Control Prohibited
3. Texas Courts Directory

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations