Texas House Bill HB2901

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/18/25

Caption

Relating to the maximum amount of a security deposit for a residential lease.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2901 would amend existing landlord-tenant laws to establish a uniform cap on security deposits, thus preventing landlords from charging excessively high amounts that may deter potential tenants. This change could improve access to housing for many individuals and families by making it easier to secure rental agreements without the burden of hefty deposits that often exceed one month's rent. Moreover, a standardized approach may facilitate smoother transactions and help create a more predictable rental market across the state.

Summary

House Bill 2901 focuses on the maximum amount of security deposit that landlords can require from tenants for residential leases. The proposed legislation aims to standardize security deposit requirements across the state to provide clarity and fairness for both landlords and tenants. It seeks to address the disparities in security deposit amounts that can vary widely by locality, which can pose challenges for tenants, especially those from lower-income backgrounds who may struggle to come up with large upfront payments before moving into a new home.

Contention

Discussions around HB 2901 have highlighted potential contention points, particularly among stakeholders in the real estate industry versus tenant advocacy groups. Proponents argue that limiting security deposits is beneficial for renters and could stimulate the housing market by encouraging more tenants to secure leases. Conversely, some landlords or real estate groups contend that a one-size-fits-all approach undermines their ability to protect their investments, particularly in high-demand areas where rental property costs are significantly higher. The balance between protecting tenant rights and ensuring landlords have adequate security for their properties appears to be a focal point of debate.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Property Code

• Chapter 92. Residential Tenancies
  • Section: 102