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What locks must a Texas rental have?
Source: Texas Locksmith Help (texaslocksmithhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 2, 2026.
- A window latch on each exterior window.
- A doorknob lock or keyed dead bolt on each exterior door.
- A sliding door pin lock on each exterior sliding glass door.
- A sliding door handle latch or a sliding door security bar on each exterior sliding glass door.
- A keyless bolting device and a door viewer on each exterior door.
An exterior door includes a door between the living area and a garage. (source: Texas Legislature)
A peephole door viewer must give a view angle of at least 160 degrees. (source: Texas Legislature)
A doorknob lock with a bolt of at least a one inch throw counts as a keyed dead bolt. (source: Texas Legislature)
The Attorney General says these devices must be installed at the landlord's expense. (source: Office of the Texas Attorney General)
If a door has only a doorknob lock, you can ask the landlord to add a keyed dead bolt at your expense at any time. (source: Texas Legislature)
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Sources
- Texas Legislature (Texas Constitution and Statutes): Property Code Chapter 92: Residential Tenancies (Subchapter D, Security Devices) (checked November 2, 2026)
- Office of the Texas Attorney General: Renter's Rights (checked November 2, 2026)
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