Houston Landlord Eviction Attorney

Helping You Navigate Evictions

Navigating the eviction process can be stressful for landlords and property managers. In Houston, Texas, you’re dealing with complex laws like the Texas Property Code Chapter 24, which regulates eviction procedures. Being aware of the legal process for eviction and the potential challenges can ensure that you’re prepared when you need to use this tool to protect your investment.

Our law firm helps you through these intricacies, providing actionable guidance. Whether this is your first eviction or you have a particularly challenging legal situation, Jarrett Law Firm, PLLC, is here to make it easier. Call our Houston office to set up a free consultation to discuss your needs so we can get to work quickly.

What Grounds Do You Need to Evict a Tenant?

Landlords in Texas have the option of terminating a tenant’s lease either for cause or without cause. A without-cause termination is used when the landlord doesn’t want to renew the lease but isn’t asking the tenant to vacate the property early. A for-cause lease termination is generally used when the tenant has either failed to pay rent on time or has violated another term of the lease, such as:

• Having a pet without permission
• Letting people who are not on the lease live at the property
• Subletting the property without permission
• Living in unsanitary conditions that affect the safety of the property
• Failing to maintain the property according to the terms of the lease, such as not mowing the lawn
• Engaging in illegal activities

Keep in mind that even if a tenant has violated their lease, you can’t go straight to the eviction step. Landlords must first give the tenant at least three days to leave the property voluntarily after being served a Notice to Vacate.

What Are the Legal Steps to Eviction?

Eviction in Texas requires following strict legal protocols. You start with serving the tenant an eviction notice, typically a “Notice to Vacate,” as per Texas Property Code Section 24.005. In most cases, you must give the tenant a minimum of three days to get out. However, if the lease is part of a federal program or the landlord has a mortgage backed by the federal government, the minimum timeframe is 30 days.

If compliance doesn’t occur, you’ll file a Forcible Entry and Detainer suit under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 510. A formal hearing takes place, where both parties will have the chance to present their arguments. If the landlord is granted a judgment, the tenant has another five days to decide whether they want to appeal. If no appeal is made, the landlord gets a writ of possession, which allows them to go in and forcibly remove the tenant’s possessions.

Mediation is also an option at this stage, acting as a potential alternative to a full-blown trial. We manage all necessary legal paperwork, court appearances, and trial preparation. Our goal is to streamline the legal aspect so you can focus on your property and investment.

We Offer Cost-Effective Solutions to Landlord-Tenant Disputes

Legal fees can quickly accumulate. We offer competitive rates and aim to resolve your case efficiently. Our proactive approach focuses on minimizing your time and costs, whether it’s through mediation or strategizing for a shorter time in court.

We’re not just here to get you through one eviction; we’re here to protect your long-term investment and help you navigate the complexities of landlord-tenant relationships, all in compliance with Texas law. Partner with us to make the eviction process less daunting and more manageable.

What Are the Legal Steps I Must Follow for Eviction in Houston?

In Houston, the eviction process follows Texas state laws, which are primarily outlined in the Texas Property Code Chapter 24. Initially, you must serve your tenant with a “Notice to Quit,” as specified in Section 24.005. This notice must clearly state the reason for eviction and give the tenant an opportunity to remedy the situation. If the tenant fails to comply, the next step involves filing a Forcible Entry and Detainer lawsuit under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 510. This initiates the formal eviction process.

Can Mediation Help Me Avoid Going to Trial?

Yes, mediation can often serve as an effective alternative to a trial. It is a less adversarial and often quicker way to resolve landlord-tenant disputes. Mediation involves a neutral third party facilitating discussions between you and the tenant to reach an agreeable solution. This approach could save both time and legal fees.

We also offer mediation services as a way to resolve landlord-tenant disputes without going to court. Mediation can often lead to quicker, less contentious resolutions, saving you time and money. Our aim is to make the eviction process as smooth, efficient, and legally compliant as possible.

How Can Working With Jarrett Law Firm Help Me Save on Legal Costs During an Eviction?

We focus on proactive legal strategies designed to minimize your time in court and subsequently reduce legal fees. Offering competitive pricing, our aim is to handle the eviction process efficiently and accurately. We provide budget-friendly solutions that help with your current eviction problem and aim to safeguard your long-term investment as a landlord or property manager. Call 346-683-2240 today to speak to an attorney.