How long must a Texas landlord keep records of the security deposit?

Texas landlords should keep deposit-related records for at least the statute of limitations period for a deposit dispute, typically 4 to 6 years depending on the state. This includes the original deposit receipt, the itemized statement at move-out, any invoices supporting deductions, photographs of the unit at move-in and move-out, and the move-in inspection checklist. After the statutory deadline (30 days under Tex. Prop. Code 92.103) for returning the deposit has passed, the records are the landlord's defense if the tenant later sues. Without records, the landlord typically loses any contested deduction. Cloud-stored, dated records are best practice. $100 plus 3x wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney fees under Tex. Prop. Code 92.109. Missing the deadline without written explanation creates a bad-faith presumption.

Source: Tex. Prop. Code 92.103