Evicting someone in Houston costs $310–$3,450 in 2026 depending on whether the landlord handles the process independently or hires an attorney. Basic eviction court filing fees cost $54–$149, while serving papers costs $75–$150 depending on constable fees and location. Attorney-assisted evictions cost $750–$3,450 depending on case complexity, nonpayment amounts, lease violations, and contested hearings. Additional costs apply for writs of possession ($150–$300) and locksmith services ($80–$180). If the tenant appeals, total costs rise significantly due to additional hearings. Most Houston evictions take 3–8 weeks depending on court backlog.
Evicting someone in Houston costs $310–$3,450 in 2026. Learn filing fees, attorney pricing, constable service costs, writ fees, and factors affecting total eviction expense.
Eviction Cost Breakdown in Houston
Eviction costs in Houston depend on whether the landlord files pro se (without an attorney), the type of violation, the court’s backlog, and whether the tenant contests the eviction. Basic, uncontested cases are affordable, but contested or appealed cases can become expensive quickly. Understanding each required step helps landlords plan accurately for the full eviction process in 2026.
• Total eviction cost ranges $310–$3,450, depending on legal assistance, service fees, writs, and appeals that may significantly prolong the process.
• Harris County Justice Courts follow strict procedures, and landlords pay separate fees for filing, serving papers, and obtaining possession after judgment.
Notice Delivery & Preliminary Costs
Before filing an eviction, landlords must provide proper written notice, which may include delivery or posting expenses.
• Notice delivery typically costs $0–$75, depending on whether the landlord posts the notice themselves or hires a professional service for documentation.
• Proper notice is legally required, and incorrect delivery can delay the entire eviction process, increasing future costs.
• Many landlords choose certified mail to create a documented record, which adds a modest expense but ensures compliance.
Court Filing Fees in Harris County
Texas requires landlords to file an eviction lawsuit (Forcible Detainer) with the local Justice Court.
• Filing fees range $54–$149, depending on the precinct and court administrative costs.
• The fee covers case creation, document processing, and scheduling of the first eviction hearing.
• Filing fees are nonrefundable, even if the tenant leaves voluntarily before the court date.
Constable Service Fees (Serving Court Papers)
Court papers must be officially served by a Harris County Constable, not by the landlord or a private process server.
• Constable service costs $75–$150 depending on distance, attempts required, and number of tenants involved.
• Multiple service attempts increase fees, especially when tenants avoid contact or cannot be located easily.
• Proper service is critical because incorrect service can delay the hearing or result in dismissal.
Attorney Eviction Costs in Houston
Hiring an attorney increases total cost but reduces risk, especially in contested or complex cases.
• Attorney-assisted evictions cost $750–$3,450, depending on experience, case complexity, contested hearings, and document preparation needs.
• Attorneys often charge higher fees for commercial evictions or cases involving safety concerns or property damage.
• Legal representation significantly improves outcomes when tenants appeal, request jury trials, or violate lease terms beyond nonpayment.
Writ of Possession Fees
If the tenant does not leave after judgment, landlords must request a writ of possession, allowing the constable to remove the tenant.
• A writ costs $150–$300, depending on court fees and constable charges.
• The writ authorizes physical removal, but landlords must not conduct a self-eviction, which is illegal in Texas.
• Lockout and move-out oversight are often required, increasing total costs if heavy items or large spaces are involved.
Locksmith, Cleanup & Property Handling Costs
After regaining possession, landlords often face additional expenses that vary by property condition.
• Locksmith services cost $80–$180, depending on lock complexity and number of doors requiring rekeying.
• Property cleanup and haul-away fees range $120–$450 for abandoned belongings or trash left behind.
• Deep cleaning or repairs may be necessary if the tenant caused damage, adding significant post-eviction expenses.
Eviction Appeal Costs
If a tenant appeals the eviction, the process becomes more expensive and time-consuming.
• Appeal bonds can cost one month’s rent, which tenants may or may not be able to pay.
• Attorney fees for appeals add $650–$1,800 depending on preparation, hearings, and court representation.
• Appeals extend the eviction timeline by 2–6 additional weeks, increasing lost rent for the landlord.
Eviction Cost by Houston Neighborhood
Costs differ across Houston depending on court precinct, legal market rates, and tenant population density.
• River Oaks, Galleria & Memorial: attorney fees tend toward the higher end, usually $1,200–$3,450.
• Heights, Montrose & Midtown: moderate legal pricing of $850–$2,200, reflecting competitive demand.
• Katy, Pearland & Cypress: $750–$1,800 for most attorney-assisted evictions.
• Pasadena, Spring & Humble: lower legal fees around $650–$1,400, especially for simple nonpayment cases.
• Areas with higher rental turnover may incur additional constable attempts, increasing total costs.
DIY (Self-Filed) vs Attorney Evictions
Landlords can save money by filing the eviction themselves, but there are risks when tenants contest or appeal.
• DIY costs range $310–$600, covering only filing, service, and writ fees without legal support.
• Self-filed cases require landlords to handle paperwork, evidence, and courtroom presentation, which can lead to delays if done incorrectly.
• Attorney evictions cost more upfront but often save time and reduce complications if tenants dispute the case.
Hidden Costs of Evicting a Tenant in Houston
Beyond direct legal expenses, landlords often incur additional financial losses during the eviction process.
• Lost rent often exceeds $700–$2,600, depending on the eviction timeline and monthly rent amount.
• Repair costs may be necessary for damage, mold, or neglected maintenance inside the unit.
• Vacancy periods after eviction add more financial burden until a new tenant is placed.
Summary Table
| Category | Cost Range (Houston 2026) |
|---|---|
| Notice Delivery | $0–$75 |
| Court Filing Fees | $54–$149 |
| Constable Service Fees | $75–$150 |
| Attorney Eviction Services | $750–$3,450 |
| Writ of Possession | $150–$300 |
| Locksmith Services | $80–$180 |
| Cleanup & Disposal | $120–$450 |
FAQ Section
Q. How much does it cost to evict someone in Houston in 2026?
A. Total costs range $310–$3,450, depending on attorney involvement, court fees, service charges, and writ requirements.
Q. What is the cheapest way to evict a tenant?
A. Filing the eviction yourself while avoiding attorney fees keeps costs between $310–$600, though the process requires careful accuracy.
Q. How long does eviction take in Houston?
A. Most evictions take 3–8 weeks, depending on court backlog, constable scheduling, and whether the tenant appeals.
Q. Can a landlord evict without going to court?
A. No. Texas requires a formal court judgment. Self-eviction (changing locks, removing belongings) is illegal.
Q. Are attorney fees recoverable from the tenant?
A. Only if the lease specifically includes an attorney-fee clause and the judge awards them.