Eviction/ Taking possession from previous owner

[Shawn Ryan]

I purchased a house in Galveston from the original owner right before Foreclosure. I didn’t have the previous owner sign a lease or anything. I’ve been told that I could evict her if needed. Long story short the previous owner has moved out and is living at a new apartment. She has moved 75% of her stuff and turned off the electric. I have just put the electric in my name. Can I go take possession of the house and change the locks then move her stuff out to the curb? She lives rent free for 45 day and has moved out 4-5 days ago. On 4/6/22. I don’t have keys or anything. I just want to go over let my self in the front door or window and change the locks so I can get it ready for a renter. 

Thank you,

[Greg H.]

Texas law permits a landlord to declare a property abandoned and take possession.  The law does not define what is considered abandoned.  Some of the criteria I use are:

-The tenant has informed me they are not living there

-Utilities are off

-Neighbors have not witness the tenant at the property for more than 3 days

-Most of the valuable items have been removed

-Mail has not been picked up

I have no issue going this route as an eviction in this case will often take longer as attempts to locate the tenant for service will need to be taken