Harris County, TX Rental Property Rules: No-Fault Evictions (2026)
Key Facts
- State statute
- TX Property Code Sec. 91.001
- Notice for month-to-month
- At least 30 days written
- Just-cause required
- No, not in county
- Eviction process
- TX Property Code Ch. 24
- Retaliation barred
- Sec. 92.331
Summary
Texas allows landlords to end fixed-term leases at expiration and to terminate month-to-month tenancies with at least 30 days' written notice for any lawful reason. Harris County has no just-cause requirement and no county ordinance restricting end-of-lease nonrenewal of private rentals.
Sec. 91.001. NOTICE FOR TERMINATING CERTAIN TENANCIES. (a) A monthly tenancy or a tenancy from month to month may be terminated by the tenant or the landlord giving notice of termination to the other.(b) If a notice of termination is given under Subsection (a) and if the rent-paying period is at least one month, the tenancy terminates on whichever of the following days is the later:(1) the day given in the notice for termination; or(2) one month after the day on which the notice is given.
Full Breakdown
Texas Property Code Section 91.001 permits either party to terminate a month-to-month tenancy by giving written notice at least one rental-payment interval, generally 30 days, before the intended termination. Fixed-term leases simply expire at the stated end date unless renewed. Texas Property Code Chapter 24 then governs eviction lawsuits in Harris County's Justice of the Peace courts if the tenant remains. Harris County has not imposed just-cause eviction; landlords may decline renewal or end at-will tenancies without stating fault. Federal Fair Housing Act protections still bar retaliation, discrimination, and termination based on protected characteristics. Houston's housing code adds limited tenant protections within city limits but not countywide.
Violations & Fines
Terminating a tenancy in retaliation for code complaints or repair requests under Texas Property Code Section 92.331, or based on race, disability, familial status, or other federally protected classes, exposes landlords to civil damages and attorney fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Harris County landlord refuse to renew a lease without giving a reason?
How much notice ends a month-to-month tenancy in Harris County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Harris County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Harris County to another location·View the Texas rental property rules overview
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