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HB 3497

Relating to certain deposits or fees required to be provided by a tenant or prospective tenant in connection with a residential lease.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Hubert Vo

Texas HB 3497 regulates tenant deposits and fees in residential leases, establishing rules for collection, holding, and return requirements affecting both renters and landlords.

Referred to Trade, Workforce & Economic Development
#propertyinterests--landlord&tenant(i0610)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 3497

Legislative bill overview

HB 3497 addresses regulations governing deposits and fees that landlords can collect from tenants or prospective tenants when entering into residential leases in Texas. The bill appears designed to establish or modify rules around what deposits and fees are permissible, how they must be handled, and what protections tenants have regarding these financial requirements.

Why is this important

Rental deposits and fees significantly impact tenant affordability and housing access, particularly for lower-income renters who may struggle to afford multiple upfront costs. Clear regulations in this area affect both tenant financial security and landlord business practices across Texas's substantial rental market, making this a consequential housing policy issue.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and limits on fees: Disagreement likely exists over whether the bill caps total permissible fees/deposits, what counts as a "fee" versus a "deposit," and whether certain fees (pet fees, application fees, administrative fees) should be restricted or prohibited
  • Return and holding requirements: Tenants may advocate for stricter timelines and conditions for returning deposits, while landlords may resist provisions they view as burdensome or costly to administer
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions about whether violations result in penalties for landlords, who enforces compliance, and whether tenants can sue directly—with housing advocates wanting stronger accountability and landlords seeking to avoid excessive liability exposure

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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