Texas Lockouts and utility shutoffs

Can a landlord change the locks or shut off utilities in Texas?

A landlord may not keep a tenant out except through the courts. The exceptions are bona fide repairs, construction or an emergency; removing the contents of abandoned premises; or changing the locks on a tenant who is behind on rent. A lock change requires a door notice telling the tenant where to get a new key 24 hours a day. Landlords also may not remove doors, locks or furnished appliances except for prompt bona fide repair. Utility cutoffs are covered separately by § 92.008.

Verified Source: Tex. Prop. Code §§ 92.0081(a)–(c), 92.008 · last checked 2026-10-23