Both chambers of the Texas Legislature have approved eviction reforms prioritized by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick that will make it easier to remove “squatters” who unlawfully occupy a property without the owner’s consent.
Under the reforms now headed to the governor’s desk, owners may file an affidavit to prove their ownership and that occupants are trespassing, and courts must act within 10 to 21 days to address an eviction request. Once the owner’s affidavit is verified by a court, law enforcement officers may remove the squatter immediately.
