Every tenant has certain legal rights when it comes to renting a property from their landlord. But many tenants, and even landlords, often wonder what their rights are when a dispute between a tenant and a landlord arises.
Having your real estate lawyer draft a detailed lease agreement or review an existing one can help protect you whether you are a landlord or a tenant. Below, we go into further detail about some of the most important rights tenants have as renters in Texas, whether the property is residential or commercial.
Tenant Rights to Withhold Rent in Texas
Tenants have the right to withhold rent in very specific circumstances. If the landlord refuses to make necessary repairs, the tenant can either withhold rent until the repairs are made or make the repairs themselves and deduct the cost from the rent. A real estate lawyer can help you figure out whether you have the right to withhold rent or if your tenants have the right to repair and deduct.
Required Landlord Disclosures
Landlords are required to provide tenants with a wide variety of information regarding their rights as a tenant at this specific property. This information is usually disclosed in your lease agreement. Some of the information landlords would be required to disclose could include other parties who might enter your property on behalf of your landlord, or matters involving your security deposit.
Texas Security Deposit Laws
There are several components to Texas security deposit laws. Landlords are required to repay security deposits within thirty days of the tenant moving out. If the landlord kept all or a portion of the security deposit, they must also keep a detailed record of how that amount was spent to cover back rent or damage to the property.
Termination and Eviction Rights in Texas
Before a landlord can file for eviction, they must provide the tenant with a notice to quit. The notice to quit can be given as few as three days before the tenant must move out of the rental property. If the tenant does not move out before the notice-to-quit date, the landlord can then file for eviction.
Get Clarification from a Texas Lawyer Regarding Tenant Rights
Whether you are a tenant involved in a dispute with your landlord, or a landlord who is unsure of their tenants’ rights, The Curry Law Firm can help. Your Texas real estate lawyer is prepared to review your lease agreement, resolve disputes, and represent your interests in court.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation when you call our office at 713-574-2070. Or complete the quick contact form we have included on our contact page.
