Make your Austin landlord fix a repair

Short answer

In Texas, a landlord's duty to repair starts with written notice and a reasonable time to fix it. Send a dated notice that names the condition and its health or safety impact, keep proof of delivery, and follow the second-notice step before stronger remedies.

Who this is for

Austin renters whose landlord is not fixing conditions that affect health or safety, from broken air conditioning to leaks.

The steps, in order

1. Document the problem with dated photos and a short written log.
2. Send a written repair notice that names the condition and asks for repair; keep proof of delivery.
3. Give a reasonable time, then send the second notice the Texas statute allows.
4. For conditions that threaten health or safety, note that plainly in the notice.
5. If nothing moves, the remedies in the statute and code enforcement are the next routes.

Have this ready

• Dated photos of the problem
• Your lease
• The landlord's notice address from the lease

Common mistakes to avoid

• Reporting by text or phone only; the statute's protections attach to written notice.
• Withholding rent without following the statute; it can put you in default instead.

Common questions

Can I withhold rent until repairs happen in Texas?

Not safely on your own. Texas law has a specific repair remedy process, and skipping its steps can put you in violation of the lease.

What if the problem is urgent, like no air conditioning in summer?

Urgent conditions get faster remedies under the statute, but the written-notice steps still apply. Note the health impact in the notice and send it with delivery proof.

Official source

• Texas Property Code repairs

Checked August 26, 2026. Recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

Related

• Get your security deposit back in Austin