According to MoneyGeek, fewer than 8% of the United States' housing is vacant at any time, and tenants constantly demand housing. Yet, the global pandemic reshaped how we live, work, and manage our properties. Specifically, the crisis has significantly changed how evictions work, especially in Houston, Texas.
For property managers and landlords, understanding these changes is crucial for navigating the complexities of eviction proceedings during these turbulent times.
Below, we investigate what this really means and how you can take control of the eviction process to avoid difficulties moving forward.
The New Reality of Evictions in Houston
COVID-19 swept through Houston and the rest of the nation a few years ago, prompting emergency measures that directly impacted evictions. In response, local government implemented many local and state eviction moratoriums to prevent tenants from being displaced during this unprecedented time. We are now in a situation where around six million people are behind on rent, according to insurer Steadily.
These accommodations were intended to protect tenants who faced financial difficulties due to job losses or health issues. However, lifting these moratoriums has introduced a challenging reality for landlords and tenants.
According to Texas law, once these moratoriums ended, landlords could resume standard eviction procedures. However, many tenants were still grappling with significant back rent, heightening the need for landlords to grasp Houston eviction laws and how they have adapted post-pandemic.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Texas legislation has also made efforts to balance tenant rights with landlord needs. Tenants are still entitled to specific protections, including the right to request financial assistance for unpaid rent. Landlords must communicate and clarify their tenants' rights to foster trust and prevent conflicts. Here are some key rights and strategies that tenants in Texas should be aware of:
Right to Notice: Tenants must be informed of any potential eviction proceedings at least 10 days prior.
Financial Assistance Programs: Many organizations offer help for tenants who are struggling to pay rent.
Negotiation Opportunities: Open discussions about payment plans can assist tenants in avoiding eviction.
Strategies for Eviction Prevention
Landlords can adopt a proactive approach when it comes to eviction prevention strategies. However, this can lead to a lot of stress.
As such, ensure you enact effective rental property management to not only maintain tenant relationships but also mitigate financial losses. Here are some practical strategies:
Regular communication: Regular check-ins with tenants fosters a sense of community while allowing landlords to gauge financial situations. Establishing these connections creates opportunities to discuss potential challenges.
Flexible payment plans: Implementing flexible payment plans serves as a powerful tool in supporting tenants. Rather than insisting on full payments, landlords can offer options that allow tenants to pay over time.
Navigating the Post-Pandemic Eviction Landscape
The lessons from the pandemic highlight the complexities of evictions in Houston. Legal changes, tenant rights, and local resources for eviction prevention emerged as pivotal elements in managing rental properties. Property owners must embrace strategies that support tenants while protecting their investments, considering the lasting effects of COVID-19.
Property Management Inc. (PMI) is the premier choice for property management, with over 400 franchises nationwide. We empower investors through comprehensive services, from residential to commercial management, ensuring optimal portfolio performance. Contact PMI today to safeguard your rental investments and to benefit from our commitment to both integrity and local expertise.
