I broke my lease in Texas. Can the landlord charge me for damages to the house after I left?

Question

I broke my lease halfway through the lease period. After moving out, I was notified by the landlord that someone had entered the house and punched holes in the walls.

Answer 1

The only way they can charge you for damages done to the house is if they discovered them before you signed finals papers.  If you've been checked out of the house, signed all the final papers, you have no obligation to pay them.  Even if you were the one who made the holes and the landlord didn't see them upon final inspection, you can't be expected to pay for it.  

If for some reason you're still paying for the house or not considered out of the house yet, I'm afraid you'll have to pay.

google texas tenant rights or texas tenant law - might help

Answer 2

Yes if they say you did it.  All they have to say is that: 1.) after you left they went in to clean and saw holes in the wall. Or 2.) When you left without notice you left the apartment abandoned and it was an easy target for vandals.  Unless you have photos of the walls to prove you didn't they would probably win in court.  Signing of papers is only protection for people who see their lease to the end you broke yours so it does not matter what you signed.