San Antonio Security Deposit Rules - Texas Guide

Housing and Building Standards Texas 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 05, 2026 Flag of Texas

In San Antonio, Texas, security deposit handling follows state law with local enforcement by city departments where applicable. This guide explains the key obligations for landlords and tenants in San Antonio, the steps to recover a withheld deposit, and where to file complaints or appeals with city offices and courts. Read the timelines, required itemized statements, common violations, and practical action steps to protect your rights or comply with obligations.

What the law requires

Under Texas law, a landlord must either return a tenant's security deposit or provide a written description of deductions and an itemized list of damages within 30 days after the tenant surrenders the premises and gives a forwarding address; see the Texas Property Code reference for the specific statutory language and timing requirements. Texas Property Code, Chapter 92[1]

Tenants should provide a forwarding address in writing to start the 30-day clock.

Penalties & Enforcement

San Antonio enforces rental and building standards through city Code Compliance and Development Services; specific monetary penalties for withholding deposits are governed by state law and civil remedies. Where the local ordinance does not set a separate fine for deposit return delays, tenants generally use state statutory remedies or file a civil claim. See the San Antonio rental information and complaint pathways below for local enforcement steps. San Antonio Rental Registration & Information[2]

  • Return or itemized list due within 30 days after surrender per state law.
  • Landlord must provide a written description of deductions and an itemized list.
  • Complaints about city code or registration should be filed with San Antonio Code Compliance or 311.
  • Disputes over withheld deposits are typically resolved in civil court or small claims.
If you intend to sue, collect and keep the itemized list, photos, and correspondence as evidence.

Applications & Forms

The City of San Antonio posts rental registration and complaint forms online; check the Development Services / Code Compliance pages for the current registration application, fees, and submission instructions. San Antonio Code Compliance - Complaint Process[3]

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Failure to return deposit or provide itemized list on time - remedy: civil claim; monetary penalties not specified on the cited page.
  • Using a deposit for ordinary wear and tear - often disallowed; specifics depend on documentation.
  • No written notice of deductions provided - may be a basis for dispute in court.

Action steps for tenants and landlords

  • Tenants: give a forwarding address in writing when moving out and keep proof of delivery.
  • Landlords: document damages, keep receipts, and deliver an itemized list within 30 days.
  • If the landlord fails to comply, file a written complaint with San Antonio Code Compliance or pursue a civil claim in court.
Document condition with photos and dated notes at move-in and move-out.

FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return my security deposit?
Under Texas law, the landlord must return the deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days after the tenant surrenders the premises and gives a forwarding address.
What must be included in an itemized list?
The itemized list should describe damages and the amount withheld for each deduction; Texas statute specifies the requirement to deliver a written description and itemized list of deductions.
Where can I file a complaint in San Antonio?
File a complaint with San Antonio Code Compliance or use the city 311 reporting system; for withheld deposits consider a civil claim if the city cannot resolve the private dispute.

How-To

  1. Gather evidence: lease, move-in checklist, photos, receipts, and any communications about the deposit.
  2. Send a written request to the landlord for the deposit or an itemized list, keep delivery proof.
  3. If no response, file a complaint with San Antonio Code Compliance and/or prepare a small claims action with documentation.
  4. Attend court or mediation with evidence; seek attorney fees only if authorized by statute or contract.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas law gives landlords 30 days to return deposits or provide an itemized list.
  • San Antonio enforces registration and code compliance; use city complaint routes for local issues.
  • Keep clear move-in and move-out records to prove or defend deductions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Texas Property Code, Chapter 92 - Residential Tenancies
  2. [2] City of San Antonio - Rental Registration
  3. [3] City of San Antonio - Code Compliance Complaint Process

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