Texas Rent Late Fee Laws
Quick answer
In Texas, the maximum legal rent late fee is governed by Tex. Prop. Code § 92.019: A late fee is presumed reasonable if it does not exceed 12% of the rent for a property with ≤ 4 dwelling units (10% for > 4 units). No fee until rent is at least 2 full days late.
Maximum late fee
$180.00 *
Grace period
2 days
Statute
Tex. Prop. Code § 92.019
* shown for a $1500.00 rent, 10 days late. Use the calculator for your numbers.
Late-Fee Compliance
Check the legal maximum late fee, grace period & cap for all 50 states + DC — before you charge.
Informational only — not legal advice. Late-fee rules change and local ordinances may be stricter than the state rule. The fee must also be stated in the signed lease and, where no statutory cap exists, be a reasonable estimate of actual damages. Verify against current law before charging. Legal data last reviewed 2026-01.
Example
On $1500.00 monthly rent that's 10 days late in Texas, the maximum legal late fee is $180.00.
Texas late fee FAQ
What is the maximum late fee a landlord can charge in Texas?
A late fee is presumed reasonable if it does not exceed 12% of the rent for a property with ≤ 4 dwelling units (10% for > 4 units). No fee until rent is at least 2 full days late. For example, on $1500.00 rent that's about $180.00.
Is there a grace period for late rent in Texas?
Yes — by statute, Texas provides a 2-day grace period before a late fee may be charged.
Is a late fee legal if it isn't in the lease?
Generally no. In every state a late fee must be disclosed in the signed lease to be enforceable, regardless of any cap.
Other states
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Start managing rent →Informational only — not legal advice. Late-fee rules change and local ordinances may be stricter than the state rule. The fee must also be stated in the signed lease and, where no statutory cap exists, be a reasonable estimate of actual damages. Verify against current law before charging. Legal data last reviewed 2026-01.