Texas rental inspection report template

Texas rules for this report

These rules are about how and when you report, not the template's fields. Check them before you deliver.

• At the beginning of the tenant's possession, the landlord makes sure each smoke alarm is in good working order by testing it with smoke, with its test button, or by the manufacturer's recommended testTexas Property Code s. 92.258 (b)
• The landlord installs at least one smoke alarm in each separate bedroom, one in a corridor serving several bedrooms, and at least one on each levelTexas Property Code s. 92.255 (a)
• Security devices operated by a key, card or combination are rekeyed at the landlord's expense no later than the seventh day after each tenant turnover; closet and other interior door locks are excludedTexas Property Code s. 92.156 (a) and (d)
• The landlord refunds the security deposit on or before the 30th day after the tenant surrenders the premisesTexas Property Code s. 92.103 (a) · Texas Attorney General, Renter's Rights
• If any of the deposit is kept, the landlord gives the tenant the balance with a written description and itemized list of all deductions; the list is not needed only where the tenant owes rent and the amount is not in disputeTexas Property Code s. 92.104 (c) · Texas Attorney General, Renter's Rights
• No part of the deposit may cover normal wear and tear, meaning deterioration from the intended use of the dwelling; deterioration from negligence, carelessness, accident or abuse by the tenant, their household or guests is not wear and tearTexas Property Code ss. 92.104 (b) and 92.001 · Texas Attorney General, Renter's Rights
• The landlord need not return the deposit or describe deductions until the tenant gives a written forwarding address, but a tenant does not lose the refund or the description just by not giving oneTexas Property Code s. 92.107
• Missing the 30 days without a refund or itemization is presumed bad faith. Bad-faith retention costs 100 dollars plus three times the amount wrongfully withheld and attorney's fees; a bad-faith failure to itemize forfeits the right to withhold any of the deposit or to sue for damage to the premisesTexas Property Code s. 92.109 (a), (b) and (d)
• When a tenant sues over the deposit, the landlord has the burden of proving that keeping any part of it was reasonableTexas Property Code s. 92.109 (c)
• Where the lease required no security deposit, the landlord notifies the tenant in writing of a claim for damages and charges before reporting it to a credit bureau or debt collector, or forfeits the right to collect itTexas Property Code s. 92.110

What is in it

• Entry and hallwaysWalls and ceiling, Floor, Doors and locks, Lights and switches, Exterior locks rekeyed since the last tenant
• Living and dining areasWalls and ceiling, Floor and carpet, Windows, screens and coverings, Outlets, lights and switches
• KitchenStove, oven and range hood, Refrigerator and freezer, Dishwasher, Sink, faucet and drain, Counters and cabinets, Walls, ceiling and floor
• BedroomsWalls and ceilings, Floors and carpet, Windows, screens and coverings, Closets and doors
• BathroomsToilet, Tub, shower, grout and caulking, Sink, vanity and mirror, Exhaust fan, Walls, ceiling and floor
• Laundry and utilityWasher and dryer, Heating, cooling and thermostat, Water heater
• Safety devicesSmoke alarms tested, Carbon monoxide alarms tested, Fire extinguisher
• Exterior, parking and storageBalcony, patio or yard, Parking or garage, Storage
• Keys, fobs and remotesItem, Quantity, Notes

Rules last reviewed October 9, 2026. Read the full Texas rental inspection report requirements.