Montgomery County, TX Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)
Just cause eviction rules in Montgomery County, TX, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Key Facts
- Just Cause
- Not required in TX
- Month-to-Month
- 30 days notice §91.001
- For-Cause Notice
- 3 days §24.005
- Self-Help
- Banned §92.008
- Local Rules
- Preempted
Summary
Texas has no just-cause eviction requirement. Montgomery County landlords may terminate month-to-month leases without cause on 30 days' written notice per Property Code §91.001. Self-help eviction is illegal.
An eviction or lease termination based on the following circumstances, which are valid grounds for eviction or lease termination in any event, does not constitute retaliation: (1) the tenant is delinquent in rent when the landlord gives notice to vacate or files an eviction action; (2) the tenant, a member of the tenant's family, or a guest or invitee of the tenant intentionally damages property on the premises or by word or conduct threatens the personal safety of the landlord, the landlord's employees, or another tenant; (3) the tenant has materially breached the lease ...
Full Breakdown
Texas Property Code §91.001 allows either party to terminate a month-to-month tenancy by giving written notice one rental-payment period in advance (typically 30 days). No cause or reason is required. For cause-based evictions, non-payment, holdover, lease breach, §24.005 requires a written three-day notice to vacate (shorter or longer if lease specifies) before a forcible detainer suit in Justice Court. HB 2127 and Property Code §92.016 preempt local 'just cause' ordinances, voiding Austin-style renter protections. Self-help eviction (lockouts, utility shutoffs, removing doors) is strictly prohibited under §92.008, exposing landlords to one month's rent plus $1,000 in statutory damages. Conroe, The Woodlands, Willis, and Magnolia all follow state process; no supplemental local just-cause rules exist. Fair Housing Act and Texas §301 still prohibit discriminatory or retaliatory non-renewal.
Violations & Fines
Self-help lockout or utility shutoff: Property Code §92.0081, one month's rent plus $1,000 plus actual damages and attorney fees. Improper notice: eviction suit dismissed. Retaliatory non-renewal: §92.331 liability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a landlord evict me without a reason in Montgomery County?
What happens if my landlord changes the locks?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Montgomery County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Montgomery County to another location·View the Texas rental property rules overview
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