As someone on the opposite of the fence (renter not a landlord); I'm unmoved by your concerns. I do agree with your comments that we should keep this strictly in the legal realm and not the realm of feelings. So, let's look at the legal side:
Texas tenant/landlord property rights
After serving you notice of the damage (not caused by them and thus your responsibility under Texas law), either by certified mail or 2x hand delivered copies, your tenant can take you to justice court where the court can reduce your tenant's rent for the loss of value and use of the rental unit [what do you think a flooded house is worth in the rental market?], or require you to pay back a month of rent and $500, or award the tenant the amount of actual damages, court costs, and attorney fees.
So, I think you could have a little more humanity, and realize your tenants are also dealing with a nightmare and potentially strapped for cash; or you can be a self-centered asshole and have your tenants and the court system ream you for it.
Texas tenant/landlord property rights After serving you notice of the damage (not caused by them and thus your responsibility under Texas law), either by certified mail or 2x hand delivered copies, your tenant can take you to justice court where the court can reduce your tenant's rent for the loss of value and use of the rental unit [what do you think a flooded house is worth in the rental market?], or require you to pay back a month of rent and $500, or award the tenant the amount of actual damages, court costs, and attorney fees.
So, I think you could have a little more humanity, and realize your tenants are also dealing with a nightmare and potentially strapped for cash; or you can be a self-centered asshole and have your tenants and the court system ream you for it.