Before you sign that lease, check for these clauses. I've reviewed 8 DFW apartment leases over the past 6 years.
Red flag #1: Rent adjustment clause
- Some leases allow the landlord to increase rent mid-lease if property taxes increase
- Legal in Texas. Read the fine print.
Red flag #2: "Relocation" clause
- Allows the apartment to move you to a different unit during your lease
- Usually buried in an addendum. This is real.
Red flag #3: Mandatory renters insurance from THEIR provider
- Legal, but their provider is always more expensive
- Counter: get your own policy that meets their requirements and submit proof
Red flag #4: Carpet replacement charge
- Many DFW apartments charge full carpet replacement ($500-1,500) at move-out regardless of condition
- Texas law says normal wear and tear cannot be deducted from your deposit (TPC 92.104)
- Carpet has a depreciation schedule. If the carpet is 5 years old, they can't charge you full replacement cost.
Red flag #5: Utility billing company (Conservice, NWP, etc.)
- These third-party billing companies add $15-40/month in fees ON TOP of actual utility costs
- Common in DFW mega-complexes. Ask about utility billing before signing.
Red flag #6: Mold liability waiver
- Some DFW leases include a mold waiver where you agree not to hold them liable
- This may not be enforceable for negligent conditions, but it complicates your case
Sources:
- Texas Property Code — Section 92.104 (wear and tear)
- Texas Apartment Association — standard lease form analysis
- Austin Tenants' Council — lease review guides (applicable statewide)
- Dallas Morning News — apartment industry coverage