Texas: rules and deadlines at a glance

Every 9 topic we track for Texas on one page. Open a topic for the details, the law it comes from and how Texas compares.

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Claim deadlines · Small claims limits · Property division · Dog bite rules · Shared fault rules · Security deposit rules · Eviction notice rules · Property tax rates

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply; open a topic for the details.

Filing deadlines (statute of limitations)

Property damage	2 years

Claim deadlines

Acknowledge	15 days
Accept or deny	15 business days after all requested information
Pay	5 business days after accepting

Small claims limits Single detailed source

Dollar limit	$20,000 (Justice Court)
Filing fee	$54 plus service
Lawyers	Allowed

Property division

System	Community property
Opt-in community property	No

Dog bite rules Single detailed source

Rule	One-bite rule
Details	One-bite rule

Shared fault rules

Rule	Modified comparative negligence (51% bar)
When you are barred	Barred if you are 51% or more at fault

Security deposit rules Single detailed source

Maximum deposit	No state limit
Return deadline	30 days after move-out

Eviction notice rules Single detailed source

Notice before filing	3 days' notice to vacate unless the lease says otherwise

Property tax rates

Effective rate	1.40%
On a $300,000 home	$4,200 a year