Texas Rules on Pet Rent: What Landlords Can Charge

If you’re a renter with pets in Texas, you may be asked to pay extra fees — including pet rent — as part of your lease agreement. Understanding what your landlord can legally charge, your rights, and where to find official help is essential for protecting both your finances and your furry companions. This article explains current Texas laws on pet rent, pet deposits, and related fees in simple language, with official links and actionable resources for renters.

Landlord Rights: Can They Charge Pet Rent in Texas?

Texas law permits landlords to charge pet-related fees, including “pet rent.” Pet rent is an extra monthly charge in addition to your base rent, applied for allowing pets to live in the rental property. There are generally three types of pet-related charges you may encounter:

• Pet Rent: An ongoing, monthly fee for keeping a pet.
• Pet Deposit: A refundable deposit for potential pet-related damages.
• Non-Refundable Pet Fee: A one-time fee that is not returned at move-out.

Texas does not set state caps on how much a landlord can charge for pet rent, deposits, or one-time fees. The amount is largely up to the landlord’s discretion, unless your lease agreement specifies limits or protections. However, these charges must be clearly stated in your signed lease or rental agreement (Texas Property Code § 92.001 et seq.)[1].

How Are Pet Fees and Deposits Regulated?

Because Texas law leaves most pet fees to the lease agreement, always review your contract carefully before signing. Key points include:

• Pet deposits should be detailed in the lease and, if treated as part of your security deposit, are refundable (minus any deductions for pet damage).
• Non-refundable pet fees and monthly pet rent must also be specifically listed.
• If pet-related charges appear after you sign your lease, your landlord must get your written consent through a formal lease amendment.

Are There Limits or Caps on Texas Pet Rent?

No state-wide limits or caps exist for pet rent or pet fees in Texas. However, local ordinances or public housing programs (such as Section 8) may impose separate rules or limits. If you suspect fees are unreasonable, refer to the terms outlined in your lease and the Texas Property Code (Texas Property Code Chapter 92)[1].

Exemptions: Service Animals and Support Animals

Under the federal Fair Housing Act and Texas laws, landlords may not charge pet rent, deposits, or fees for service animals or emotional support animals (even if a general “no pets” policy is in place). To qualify, you may be asked for documentation showing your need for the animal, but you cannot be charged extra rent or deposits solely because of the animal’s status.

What Official Forms Are Used in Texas?

• Texas Association of Realtors Pet Agreement (Form No. 2011): Used when adding a pet to your lease with landlord approval. This form outlines specific rules, fees, and deposits for pets. Download the official Pet Agreement (for informational use only; contact your landlord or property manager for the version specific to your lease).
• Texas Notice to Vacate (VAR Form 1001): If a disagreement about pet rent leads to a breach of lease and possible eviction, this is the official notice landlords must give before starting eviction action. Sample form and information are available from Texas Law Help. (Practical example: If your landlord suddenly imposes unauthorized pet rent and issues this notice, seek immediate legal advice.)

Disputing Unlawful or Excessive Pet Charges

If you believe your landlord is charging unlawful or excessive amounts outside your lease terms, you can:

• Send a written request for clarification, referencing your signed lease agreement and Texas Property Code.
• If unresolved, file a complaint with local housing authorities or seek guidance from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA).
• If the dispute cannot be resolved, you may bring your case to a local Justice of the Peace Court, which handles residential tenancy matters and small claims in Texas.[2]

Be sure to keep copies of your lease, payment records, and all correspondence regarding pet rent or fees.

FAQ: Pet Rent and Fees for Texas Renters

1. Can my landlord charge any amount for pet rent in Texas?
   Yes. There are no state-wide limits; landlords set the amount in the lease agreement.
2. Is pet rent refundable?
   No, pet rent is a recurring monthly charge and is not refundable. Only a pet deposit may be refundable if there are no damages.
3. Can a landlord add pet rent after I’ve already signed my lease?
   Not without your written agreement. Any new charges must be formally added via a lease amendment, which you do not have to accept.
4. Are service animals or emotional support animals subject to pet rent?
   No. Fees for service or support animals are prohibited under federal and state fair housing laws.
5. Which agency should I contact for help with rental disagreements in Texas?
   Start with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs or your local Justice of the Peace Court.

Key Takeaways for Texas Renters

• Pet rent and pet-related fees are legal and unregulated in Texas unless limited by your lease or local rules.
• All charges must be clearly defined in your lease agreement to be enforceable.
• Service and support animals are always exempt from pet-related fees or deposits.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) – State housing authority and tenant-landlord resource
• Justice of the Peace Courts Directory – For filing complaints or resolving disputes about tenancy or fees
• Texas Law Help – Free legal forms, advice, and information for Texas renters
• Texas Property Code Chapter 92: Residential Tenancies – Official legislation covering rental agreements and deposits

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1. [1] Texas Property Code Chapter 92: Residential Tenancies
2. [2] Justice of the Peace Courts – Texas Judicial Branch

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