San Antonio Landlord & Tenant Attorney
Landlord-tenant disputes can escalate quickly — from a security deposit dispute to a full eviction proceeding, from a habitability complaint to a wrongful lockout claim. Whether you are a property owner trying to protect your investment or a tenant whose rights have been violated, you need an attorney who understands Texas landlord-tenant law and knows how to move fast.
We Represent Both Landlords and Tenants
For Landlords
- Eviction proceedings (forcible detainer actions)
- Non-payment of rent
- Lease violations and holdover tenants
- Property damage claims
- Commercial lease disputes
- Security deposit disputes
- Lease drafting and review
For Tenants
- Wrongful eviction defense
- Security deposit recovery
- Habitability and warranty of habitability claims
- Wrongful lockout and utility shutoff
- Retaliation claims
- DTPA claims against landlords
Key Texas Landlord-Tenant Rules
Security Deposits
Texas law requires landlords to return a tenant's security deposit within 30 days of the tenant surrendering the premises, along with an itemized written description of any deductions. Failure to comply can result in the landlord forfeiting the right to retain any portion of the deposit and owing the tenant three times the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney's fees.
Repair and Remedy
Texas tenants have specific rights to have conditions materially affecting health or safety repaired. The process involves proper written notice to the landlord and, if repairs are not made within a reasonable time, the tenant may have the right to repair-and-deduct, terminate the lease, or seek judicial remedies.
Eviction Process
Texas has a relatively fast eviction process, but procedural requirements are strict. Mistakes in notice, timing, or filing can delay the process significantly. We handle evictions efficiently and correctly the first time.
How quickly can I evict a tenant in Texas?
With proper notice and no procedural errors, an eviction judgment can often be obtained within 3–4 weeks. However, tenants have the right to appeal, which can extend the process. We prepare eviction cases properly from the start to minimize delay.
Can my landlord lock me out without a court order?
No. In Texas, a landlord cannot lock out a tenant, remove doors or windows, or interrupt utilities to force a tenant out without a court order. A wrongful lockout entitles the tenant to recover possession, one month's rent plus $500, attorney's fees, and court costs.