Frequently asked questions

CertRent Basics

How does CertRent work?

You create an account, verify your identity, and connect income or employment documentation. CertRent packages this into a portable renter profile you can share with any DFW landlord. You control who sees it and for how long. Landlords receive a clean, verified summary instead of a pile of loose paystubs and PDFs.

Is CertRent really free for renters?

Yes. Building and sharing your CertRent profile is free. We do not charge application fees. Note that a landlord may still charge their own application fee — Texas law does not cap this amount, unlike some other states (Property Code §92.351). If a landlord doesn't respond within 7 days of a completed application, you're treated as rejected (§92.352).

What do landlords actually see?

Landlords see the verified elements you choose to share: identity confirmation, income or employment verification, and rental history you provide. You decide what is included before you send it. We do not sell your data or share it without your action.

Data and Privacy

Is my personal data safe?

Your data is encrypted and shared only when you choose to send a profile. We never sell renter data. You can revoke a landlord's access at any time from your dashboard.

Do I need a Social Security number?

No. CertRent supports ITIN holders. An ITIN or alternative documentation is a valid path to a verified profile.

Texas Law Basics

How much can a landlord charge me to apply?

There is no state cap on the nonrefundable application fee in Texas (Property Code §92.351). A separate "application deposit," if collected, is refundable and distinct from the fee.

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit, and when do I get it back?

Texas sets no cap on the deposit amount, but a landlord must return it within 30 days of move-out, cannot deduct for normal wear and tear, and must give you a written itemized list of deductions if withholding any amount (§92.103, §92.104). Bad-faith retention can make the landlord liable for $100 plus three times the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney's fees (§92.109).

Are there limits on late fees?

Late fees must be written into the lease, be reasonable, and can only apply once rent is at least 2 full days late. A fee within 12% of one rental period's rent (properties of 4 units or fewer) or 10% (larger properties) is presumptively reasonable (§92.019) — confirm the current figure against your lease and the statute before relying on it.

Is there rent control in Dallas or Fort Worth?

No functioning rent control exists in Texas today. State law preempts local rent control except when a city adopts it during a governor-approved disaster emergency (Local Gov't Code §214.902).

What if my apartment needs repairs?

Texas law requires landlords to address conditions that materially affect health or safety after proper notice, with specific rules on timing and tenant self-help remedies (Property Code §92.052–§92.0563). See our renter-help page for more.

Ready to start? Create your free CertRent profile or explore our Dallas-Fort Worth renter rights guide.