Can a Texas landlord require a credit check or charge a screening fee?

Yes, but with two limits. First, the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires the landlord to disclose to the applicant that a consumer report will be obtained, and to provide a copy of any adverse-action notice if the application is denied because of the report. Second, Texas law caps how much can be charged as a screening fee. The fee must reasonably approximate the actual cost of the screening (usually $25 to $50). Charging more than the screening's actual cost, or refusing to refund the difference, can be a violation. Always issue a written receipt and itemize the use of the fee.

Source: Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681; Texas landlord-tenant code