Breaking Your Lease Due To Domestic Violence 

Texas housing law (Texas Property Code §92.016) protects victim-survivors of family violence (domestic abuse), sexual assault, or stalking, allowing them to lawfully terminate a lease early when safety is at risk.

Required Documentation to Terminate Lease

A tenant may terminate the lease without further obligation if they are a victim-survivor of family violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

The tenant must notify the landlord in writing and provide at least one of the following forms of documentation:

• Valid Civil or Criminal Protective Order, such as:
  • Family violence protective order
  • Emergency protection order
• Documentation from a Qualified Third Party, such as:
  • Medical or mental health professional
  • Victim advocate or counselor

Notice Requirement

In most cases, the tenant must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before the termination date.

If the violence was committed by a co-tenant or occupant in the home, the 30-day notice requirement may not apply.

Financial Responsibility After Termination

A tenant who lawfully terminates a lease under Texas law:

• May not be charged future rent beyond the termination date
• May not be charged unlawful lease break penalties if termination is properly documented
• May still be responsible for rent owed through the notice period or termination date

Confidentiality

Landlords must not disclose the tenant’s status as a victim-survivor except with written consent or a court order.