Lease-based cleaning chargeCheck the lease
The statute permits deductions for charges the tenant is legally liable for under the lease.
Condition-related deductionNormal wear still matters
Deposit money cannot be retained for normal wear and tear.
Deposit retentionItemize it
A written description and itemized list is generally required when part of the deposit is retained.
What to compare
- The move-out cleaning clause or fee addendum.
- Move-in and move-out cleanliness photos.
- Cleaning invoices or work orders.
- Whether the fee is a contractual flat charge or tied to actual condition.
- The itemized security-deposit accounting if the fee was deducted from the deposit.
Keep the scope in mind. This guide summarizes the cited Texas statewide sources. Lease terms, subsidized-housing rules, local rules and the specific evidence can change the analysis of an individual dispute.
Official sources
Use these links to verify the rule directly. RentBillCheck prioritizes Texas statutes and state-agency materials over secondary summaries.
Texas Constitution and StatutesTexas Property Code § 92.104 — Retention of Security Deposit; Accounting ↗
Primary rules for lawful deductions, normal wear and tear, and written itemization when a landlord retains deposit money.
Texas Constitution and StatutesTexas Property Code § 92.001 — Definitions ↗Primary definition of normal wear and tear for Texas residential tenancies.
Office of the Attorney General of TexasRenter’s Rights ↗Official Texas consumer guidance summarizing deposits, itemized deductions, normal wear and tear and forwarding-address issues.