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Texas Property Code
Below is our interpretation of the basics of the Texas Property Code with regard to landlord responsibilities. While our locksmiths ensure property code compliance on a daily basis, we are not lawyers. Since this is the case, you may want to review the full text of Chapter 92 - Residential Tenancies - Texas Property Code.
Landlords
in Texas are required to follow specific Property Code requirements
with regard to "Security Devices" in rental properties.
Did you know that your failure to follow the lock laws gives your tenant
a free and legal walk-away cancellation of the lease agreement? It
also places you in a position of greater liability in case
of a
break
in. Why risk it?
Here are the basics of what you must know and abide by. Please contact us if you have any questions.
-
Upon change of tenants, you have within 7 days of your new tenant moving in to rekey the locks. This expense cannot be passed on to the tenant, even if the tenant agrees. It is illegal to charge tenants for re-keying locks in Texas.
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All exterior doors in your rental property must have a keyless deadbolt installed. The garage leading from the inside of your home into the garage is considered an exterior door.
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All exterior doors in your rental property must have a door viewer (peep hole) installed.
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All sliding patio doors must have a pin lock AND either a locking handle or a charlie bar installed.
-
Exit doors, such as an upstairs passage door leading to a balcony, are not required to have keyed deadbolts or locking doorknobs, but must have a keyless deadbolt installed.
Other Tips:
Proper Handling of Keys
Property Managers and Landlords should NEVER label keys
with the property address. Always use a code or cryptic initials
in case
the
keys are
lost or stolen.
Double
Cylinder Deadbolts
Double Cylinder Deadbolts, which require a key to open the deadbolt from
the inside and exit, can create a fire trap. They are not illegal, but
it would be prudent for you to consider the possible liability of a tenant
or children trapped inside your dwelling during a fire.
Contact us if you have any questions at all about your property or the laws that must be followed when renting residential real estate.
877-211-5397 (KEYS)