One of the most common questions we get from landlords thinking about or are already in the process of renting their homes is how to handle a situation when the tenant stops paying rent. In other words, how to evict a tenant in Houston, Texas. Luckily for Flat Fee Landlord, we don’t have to do too many evictions because of our 1% eviction rate on placed tenants. However, there are unfortunately times we have to evict tenants for landlords that either had someone else place their tenant or they tried doing it themselves. Fear not, the eviction process isn’t as daunting as you may think. In fact, if you have a legal and written lease, you should be in good shape. Here are the steps to evicting a tenant in Houston, Texas.
- Rent is considered Late after the 3rd day of the month. You will send a Notice to Vacate notice on the 4th day of the month via certified mail.
- Next file a Summons for an Unlawful Detainer at your local Courthouse.
- Show up to court on the date. Remember to bring a copy of the lease; as well as, a copy of the Notice to Vacate Notice (and proof of delivery) you sent to your tenant.
- Receive judgement and a Writ of Possession.
- Coordinate a time and date to meet the Constable and a locksmith at the property. The Constable will assist with the transfer of property back into your possession and the locksmith will change the locks.
Congrats! If you have followed these steps and have a legal and written lease, you should have your property back in your possession. Additionally, the whole process may take up to 3-6 weeks depending on everyone’s schedules. It may take even longer should the tenant file an appeal after the judgement.
Call Flat Fee Landlord Houston at (281)972-4566 or visit our website at www.HoustonPropertyManager.com for help with the evicting a tenant in Houston or property management and leasing of your home!
