
The eviction process in Houston, Texas is a seven-step legal procedure that takes 3 to 6 weeks when uncontested. It begins with a written Notice to Vacate (minimum 3 days for non-payment), followed by filing a forcible detainer suit at the Harris County Justice of the Peace Court for your property’s precinct, a hearing 10–21 days later, a 5-day appeal window, and finally a Writ of Possession executed by a constable.
Dealing with a problem tenant is one of the most stressful situations a Houston landlord can face. Maybe they’ve stopped paying rent. Maybe they’ve violated the lease. Whatever the reason, you need to know the Houston eviction process inside and out, because one misstep can cost you weeks, reset the clock, and hand your tenant a defense.
This guide walks you through how to evict a tenant in Houston from the moment you decide to act to the day your constable shows up with a writ of possession. We’ve updated it for 2026 Texas law, including the changes that took effect January 1, 2026 under Senate Bill 38. We’ve also included a printable Houston Eviction Checklist and a visual flowchart so you can track exactly where you are in the process.
Minimum notice to vacate (non-payment)
Days until JP Court hearing after filing
Tenant’s window to appeal after judgment
Typical total timeline (uncontested)

