Texas Eviction Rules
Official notice periods, filing timelines, and legal citations for this state.
Notice Requirements
Nonpayment of Rent
3 days
Lease Violation
3 days
When can the landlord file?
Landlord may file an eviction (forcible detainer) case after the 3-day notice period or longer if the lease specifies.
Tenant answer deadline
5
Hearing timeline
Often 1–3 weeks after filing in Justice Court, depending on docket and service.
Lockout / physical eviction
Constable or sheriff executes the writ of possession after judgment; self-help lockouts are restricted.
Eviction Process Timeline
Notice Period (Nonpayment)
3 days
Notice Period (Lease Violation)
3 days
Landlord Can File
Landlord may file an eviction (forcible detainer) case after the 3-day notice period or longer if the lease specifies.
Tenant Answer Deadline
5
Hearing Timeline
Often 1–3 weeks after filing in Justice Court, depending on docket and service.
Lockout / Physical Eviction
Constable or sheriff executes the writ of possession after judgment; self-help lockouts are restricted.
Legal Citations
- Tex. Prop. Code § 24.005
- Tex. Prop. Code § 24.0051
- Tex. Prop. Code § 24.0061