After the CDC's eviction moratorium ended in August 2021, Texas evictions began to creep up again to nearly 7000 eviction cases. Many of these were due to unpaid rent. That's why understanding eviction protection in Texas is so important.
For many Dallas tenants, the idea of eviction is the worst possible scenario. Whether a tenant has received an eviction notice out of the blue, or they had a feeling it was coming, knowing the rights of both the tenant and landlord can make the eviction process easier.
To find out the top three things every landlord and tenant needs to know about eviction protection in Dallas, have a look at the list below.
1. In Texas, a Verbal Landlord Eviction is Not Enough if the Tenant is Being Evicted Due to Covid-19
Due to the pandemic, many tenants have struggled to pay their rent. This is due to illness or a loss of employment.
However, regardless of the amount of rent that is overdue, a landlord cannot verbally evict a tenant if their delinquency or breach of contract has been caused by Covid-19.
A landlord must give a COVID Notice of Possible Eviction to the tenant before any further steps move forward. This document will explain why a landlord wants to evict a tenant. It will also give the tenant a chance to reply to the notice explaining their circumstances.
Making use of a Dallas property management company is helpful in these situations. A property management team will guide any confused landlords through the Covid-19 eviction process.
2. A Tenant Faces Eviction in Dallas if They Have Not Paid Their Rent
Dallas eviction protection laws mean that one scenario that allows for eviction is when the rent has not been paid. However, this will usually not occur until a significant amount of rent is overdue.
Usually, when a tenant receives a written notice of eviction due to overdue rent, they will reach out to their landlord to see if some arrangement is possible.
3. A Landlord Must Follow Specific Steps Before Evicting a Tenant
The first step begins when the landlord gives the tenant a written notice to vacate. This is given to the tenant before any further eviction proceedings can take place. It will give the tenant a set time to move out, or a chance to respond to the landlord's request to see if an agreement is feasible.
An eviction suit must then be filed and then a judgment is made. Following the judgment, a tenant can take some time to decide if they want to pursue an appeal option.
Eviction Protection is in Place For Landlords and Tenants
Eviction protection creates rights for both the tenant and landlord. The tenant knows they have enough time to vacate the property and appeal if they choose to. Landlords are able to ensure the home they rent is always in safe and reliable hands.
To learn more about property management and rental protection, have a look at this page. You can contact a friendly member of the customer service team if you have any further questions.