Lease Term Glossary

A non-refundable fee charged to process your rental application, covering background and credit checks.

Transferring your entire lease to another person, who takes over all rights and responsibilities. Unlike subletting, you are typically released from the lease.

A clause that automatically extends your lease for another term unless you give notice by a specific deadline.

When a landlord's actions (or failure to act) make the property uninhabitable, effectively forcing the tenant to leave.

A provision allowing either party to end the lease before its natural expiration, usually with penalties or conditions.

The legal process by which a landlord removes a tenant from a rental property. In Texas, landlords must follow specific legal procedures.

The formal eviction lawsuit filed in Justice Court after a tenant fails to vacate following notice. Also called an eviction suit.

The requirement that a rental property be fit for human habitation, including working utilities, structural integrity, and freedom from health hazards.

A tenant who remains in the rental property after their lease has expired without signing a new lease. May be subject to higher rent or eviction.

A charge added to your rent when payment is not received by the due date or within a grace period. Texas law requires late fees to be "reasonable."

A legally binding contract between a landlord and tenant that outlines the terms and conditions of renting a property, including rent amount, duration, rules, and responsibilities.

A rental arrangement that automatically renews each month until either party gives proper notice to terminate. Often begins after an initial lease term expires.

A documented walkthrough of the property's condition when you move in and out. Critical for protecting your security deposit.

The expected decline in a property's condition due to ordinary, everyday use. Landlords cannot deduct security deposit for normal wear and tear.

A written notice from the landlord demanding you leave the property. Texas requires at least 3 days notice (unless lease specifies otherwise) before filing for eviction.

A pet deposit is refundable if no pet damage occurs. A pet fee is non-refundable. Some landlords charge monthly pet rent as well.

Partial rent calculated based on the number of days you occupy the unit, rather than a full month.

Your right to use and enjoy your rental without unreasonable interference from the landlord or other tenants.

The period within which a landlord must make repairs after proper notice. Texas law presumes 7 days is reasonable for most repairs.

A provision specifying how and when a lease can be renewed, including any rent increases that may apply upon renewal.

A discount or incentive offered by landlords, such as one month free rent, reduced deposit, or waived fees.

A tenant remedy allowing you to make necessary repairs yourself and deduct the cost from rent after the landlord fails to make repairs within a reasonable time.

Illegal action by a landlord against a tenant for exercising their legal rights, such as complaining about conditions or organizing with other tenants.

The landlord's right to enter your unit for legitimate purposes. Texas law doesn't specify notice requirements, but reasonable notice (24-48 hours) is standard.

Money paid upfront to protect the landlord against damage or unpaid rent. In Texas, must be returned within 30 days of move-out with an itemized list of any deductions.

When a tenant rents out all or part of their leased property to another person (subtenant). The original tenant remains responsible to the landlord.

A group of tenants who work together to address shared concerns and advocate for better conditions. Your right to organize is protected by Texas law.

A court order that authorizes a constable to physically remove a tenant and their belongings from the property.