What Texas law actually gives you.

Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA). Texas consumers have a statutory right of action against false, misleading, or deceptive business practices — this covers a lot of bad-contractor behavior (bait-and-switch pricing, unlicensed work claimed as licensed, knowingly defective work misrepresented as sound).

Right to a written contract. Get everything in writing: scope, price, timeline, change-order process. Verbal promises are far harder to enforce.

Mechanic's and materialman's liens (for subs/vendors). Texas Property Code Chapter 53 gives unpaid subcontractors and suppliers the right to place a lien on the property — but the notice and filing deadlines are strict and trade-dependent. Don't assume you have more time than you do.

Residential Construction Liability Act. Before suing a contractor over construction defects, Texas law generally requires sending a formal notice and giving the contractor a chance to inspect and offer repair. Skipping this step can limit your later claims — so don't skip it, even if it feels like a formality.

Licensing isn't universal. General contracting isn't state-licensed in Texas, but many trades within it are (electrical, plumbing, HVAC). Check TDLR for whether your specific trade requires one, and whether the person who worked on your home actually held it.

Insurance fraud is a separate track. If a contractor inflated an insurance estimate, told you to lie to your insurer, or paid your deductible (illegal in Texas), that's reportable to your insurer's special investigations unit and potentially the Texas Department of Insurance.