Just Cause Eviction: Deer Park vs Houston

Can a landlord evict without reason in Harris County?

For month-to-month leases, yes. Landlords can terminate with proper notice without stating a reason. Fixed-term leases require cause such as non-payment or lease violations.

How does the eviction process work?

The landlord must give a 3-day written notice to vacate, then file an eviction suit in Justice of the Peace court. The tenant has the right to appear and contest the eviction.

Does Houston require just cause to evict?

No. Houston has no local just-cause-eviction ordinance and Texas state law does not require landlords to state any reason to end a month-to-month tenancy. Under Tex. Prop. Code § 91.001, either party may terminate on one month's written notice.

How much notice must a Houston landlord give to end a month-to-month tenancy?

One month under Tex. Prop. Code § 91.001 — the tenancy ends on the later of the date in the notice or one month after notice is given. The lease may specify a different period if both parties signed an agreement to that effect.

What protects Houston tenants from a retaliatory eviction?

Tex. Prop. Code § 92.331 bars a landlord from filing an eviction within six months after a tenant exercises a statutory right such as requesting repairs or filing a code complaint, with limited exceptions in § 92.332. A wrongful retaliatory eviction triggers liability of one month's rent plus $500 plus actual damages and attorney fees under § 92.333.