Understanding the Texas Eviction Process in Fort Worth

For landlords and property owners in Fort Worth, managing a tenant who is not paying rent or consistently late can be stressful. Eviction is often a necessary step to regain control of your property, but the Texas eviction process requires strict adherence to legal guidelines. Here’s everything you need to know about handling evictions in Fort Worth, Texas.

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Step 1 – Review the Lease Agreement

Before starting the eviction process, carefully review the lease agreement. Look for clauses regarding rent payment, grace periods, and tenant obligations. The lease serves as the foundation of your eviction case, so ensure the tenant has clearly violated its terms.

Step 2 – Issue a Notice to Vacate

The first legal step in the Texas eviction process is serving a Notice to Vacate. This document formally notifies the tenant of their lease violation and gives them a deadline to either pay overdue rent, resolve the issue, or vacate the property.

How to Serve the Notice

• Hand-deliver the notice to the tenant.
• Post the notice on the inside of the main entry door.
• Send it via certified mail with a return receipt.

Notice Period

In most cases, landlords in Fort Worth must provide at least 3 days’ notice before taking further action. However, your lease agreement may specify a longer notice period.

Step 3 – File an Eviction Lawsuit

If the tenant does not comply with the Notice to Vacate, the next step is to file an eviction lawsuit, also known as a forcible detainer suit, in the appropriate Justice of the Peace Court.

Required Documents

• A copy of the lease agreement.
• Proof of the Notice to Vacate (e.g., certified mail receipt or delivery confirmation).
• Documentation of rent owed or other violations.

Filing Location

File the lawsuit in the Justice of the Peace Court for the precinct where the rental property is located in Fort Worth.

Step 4 – Attend the Court Hearing

Once the eviction lawsuit is filed, the court will schedule a hearing, typically within 10-21 days. Both you and the tenant will have the opportunity to present your case.

How to Prepare for the Hearing

• Bring all relevant documents, such as the lease agreement, payment records, and proof of the notice delivery.
• Clearly state the reason for eviction and provide evidence to support your claim.

If the court rules in your favor, a Judgment for Possession will be issued, giving you the legal right to reclaim your property.

Step 5 – Obtain a Writ of Possession

If the tenant does not vacate the property after the court’s judgment, you can request a Writ of Possession. This legal document allows law enforcement to remove the tenant and their belongings.

• The reason for eviction (e.g., non-payment of rent).
• The amount owed (if applicable).
• A deadline for the tenant to resolve the issue or vacate.

Step 3 – File an Eviction Lawsuit

If the tenant does not comply with the Notice to Vacate, you can file an eviction lawsuit (forcible detainer suit) in the appropriate Justice of the Peace Court. Be prepared to provide:

• A copy of the lease agreement.
• Evidence of non-payment or lease violations.
• Proof that the Notice to Vacate was delivered.

Step 4 – Attend the Court Hearing

At the eviction hearing, present your case with supporting evidence. The tenant and the housing authority may also present their cases. If the court rules in your favor, you’ll receive a Judgment for Possession.

Step 5 – Obtain a Writ of Possession

If the tenant does not leave after the court’s ruling, you must request a Writ of Possession to legally remove them from the property. Law enforcement will serve this writ and supervise the removal of the tenant and their belongings.

Enforcing the Writ

• The constable or sheriff will serve the writ and provide the tenant with a final notice, usually giving them 24-48 hours to vacate.
• If the tenant fails to leave, the officer will proceed with the physical eviction.

Tips for Landlords Handling Evictions in Fort Worth

• Document Everything: Keep records of lease agreements, payment history, and all communications with the tenant.
• Follow Texas Law: Adhering to the legal process is critical to avoid delays or dismissal of your case.
• Seek Professional Help: If the process feels overwhelming, consider hiring an eviction specialist to guide you through the steps.

Why Choose NTX Eviction for Your Eviction Needs?

At NTX Eviction, we specialize in assisting landlords and property owners in Fort Worth, Texas, with the eviction process. From serving notices to representing you in court, we handle every step with professionalism and efficiency.

Why Work with Us?

• Expertise in Texas eviction laws.
• Affordable, transparent pricing.
• Quick and reliable service.
• Personalized support tailored to your needs.

Take Action Today

If you’re dealing with a non-paying tenant or a tenant who is consistently late on rent, let NTX Eviction help. We make the Texas eviction process in Fort Worth simple and stress-free.

Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward regaining control of your property.

Need more help? Have more questions? Contact us today for a free consultation