Louisiana vs Texas: Security Deposit Law Comparison

See how Louisiana and Texas compare on deadlines, penalties, and tenant protections - so you know exactly where you stand.

Deadline

30dvs30d

Penalty

3x depositvs3x deposit

WNT Protection

YesvsYes

Small Claims

$5,000vs$20,000

Side-by-Side Comparison

Green badges highlight the rule that's better for tenants in each category.

Return Deadline
Louisiana30 days
Texas30 days
Deadline Trigger
LouisianaAfter move-out
TexasAfter move-out
Penalty
Louisiana3x deposit
Texas3x deposit
Penalty Condition
LouisianaN/A
TexasBad faith
Itemization Deadline
Louisiana30d
Texas30d
WNT Protection
LouisianaYes
TexasYes
Small Claims
Louisiana$5,000
Texas$20,000Better
SoL
Louisiana10 yrsBetter
Texas2 yrs

State Summaries

Louisiana

La. Rev. Stat. §9:3251

  • Return deadline: 30 days after move-out
  • Penalty: Up to 3x your deposit (n/a violation)
  • Wear & tear: Prohibited - landlord cannot deduct normal wear
  • Small claims: Sue for up to $5,000 without an attorney

Texas

Texas Property Code §92.103

  • Return deadline: 30 days after move-out
  • Penalty: Up to 3x your deposit (bad faith violation)
  • Wear & tear: Prohibited - landlord cannot deduct normal wear
  • Small claims: Sue for up to $20,000 without an attorney

Frequently Asked Questions

Which state has stronger tenant protections - Louisiana or Texas?

Louisiana and Texas are closely matched on tenant protections. Each has distinct strengths - Louisiana may be stronger in some categories while Texas leads in others. Review the comparison table above for details.

What is the security deposit return deadline in Louisiana vs Texas?

In Louisiana, landlords must return your security deposit within 30 days after move-out. In Texas, the deadline is 30 days after move-out. Missing these deadlines can trigger penalties for the landlord.

What penalty can a landlord face for keeping a deposit in Louisiana vs Texas?

Louisiana: Up to 3x your deposit (n/a violation). Texas: Up to 3x your deposit (bad faith violation). Always document your move-out carefully to support a claim.

Do Louisiana and Texas protect against normal wear-and-tear deductions?

Yes - both Louisiana and Texas prohibit landlords from deducting normal wear and tear from your security deposit. Only actual damage beyond normal use can be deducted.

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