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.
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.
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.
Harris County, TX
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Harris County, TX
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Harris County, TX
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Harris County, TX
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Harris County, TX
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Harris County, TX
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See how Harris County's no-fault evictions rules stack up against other locations.
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