Starting September 1, 2025, a new Texas law, or Senate Bill 1333, will make it easier for property owners and managers to remove unauthorized occupants and fight back against property fraud. Known informally as the “anti-squatter bill,” SB 1333 creates a faster, more direct way to reclaim properties that have been taken over or falsely rented out.
For landlords and investors across Houston and the surrounding areas, this is one of the most significant changes to property law in years.
Why SB 1333 was created
In recent years, Texas has seen more cases of squatting and fraudulent rental listings.
Owners would return to find strangers living in their homes, or discover their property had been listed online by someone pretending to be the landlord. Under the old laws, these situations often required lengthy eviction proceedings even though the “tenants” had no legal right to be there.
Senate Bill 1333 was designed to fix that, quicker than what the typical eviction process would allow.
Faster legal action against unauthorized occupants
Under the new law, property owners (or their authorized agents, ie. Houston property managers) can now file a sworn complaint with local law enforcement if someone is occupying their property without permission.
After verifying ownership and other details, law enforcement can serve notice to the unauthorized occupants and remove them.
This makes it possible to reclaim a property much more quickly in true squatter cases.
What’s a true squatter case?
The occupant shouldn’t be a current or former tenant;
The occupant shouldn’t have a valid lease; and
The owner can prove lawful ownership of the property.
If there’s a lack of clarity or dispute in any of those conditions, the case will need to go through regular eviction court.
SB 1333 imposes tougher penalties for property fraud
What of fraudsters who falsely claim to own or rent out property?
Renting out, selling, or advertising a property without authorization can now be prosecuted as a felony.
Using fake documents (like forged deeds or leases) to claim ownership or occupancy is now a criminal offense.
Damaging property during unlawful occupancy can result in enhanced penalties under criminal mischief laws.
For landlords, this means stronger legal tools to stop bad actors who try to profit off your property without permission.
Thinking about putting your Houston home up for rent? The rental market can be challenging to navigate. Contact us by emailing Info@AreaTexas.com or call us at 713.972.1222.
Direct involvement of law enforcement
One of the most significant changes in SB 1333 is the direct involvement of law enforcement. Once an owner files a valid sworn complaint, law enforcement must:
Verify the owner’s claim of lawful possession;
Deliver a notice to vacate to the unauthorized occupant;
If necessary, remove the occupant and remain on-site during lock changes or removal of personal property.
Property owners may be charged a fee for this service, similar to the cost of a writ of possession in a standard eviction case.
Importantly, the law provides limited liability protection for sheriffs, constables, and property owners during this process, as long as they act in good faith.
When You Should Still Use Eviction Court
While SB 1333 creates a powerful new tool, it doesn’t replace eviction court entirely.
You’ll still need to file a traditional eviction suit if:
A tenant stops paying rent or violates their lease;
A lease has expired but the tenant refuses to leave;
There’s any dispute about who has a right to occupy the property.
SB 1333 is designed only for clear-cut squatter or fraud cases where there’s no legitimate tenancy or lease.
Why It Matters for Landlords and Property Managers
For Houston property owners, this law could mean much faster resolution in cases that used to drag on for months. Instead of waiting for a hearing date and going through appeals, you may now be able to remove unauthorized occupants in a matter of days.
However, it also means you’ll need to be very careful with documentation. Filing a sworn complaint requires you to attest under oath that the person in the property has no right to be there, and filing one incorrectly could expose you to liability.
Best Practices Moving Forward
SB 1333 took effect in September 2025, and landlords and property managers should:
Keep ownership and leasing records up to date. You’ll need to show proof of ownership and management authority if you file a complaint.
Inspect vacant properties regularly. Prevent unauthorized occupancy before it happens.
Document everything. Take photos, save correspondence, and keep copies of all leases and notices.
Work closely with law enforcement. Law enforcement is now a key partner in the removal process.
Know when to use the law. SB 1333 is not for tenant disputes. It’s for truly unauthorized occupants.
How this works with Senate Bill 38
Earlier in 2025, Texas also passed Senate Bill 38, which updates the eviction process itself. Together, these two laws give property owners two important tools:
SB 38 speeds up legitimate eviction cases through the courts.
SB 1333 allows for faster, non-court removal of true squatters and fraudulent occupants.
Used correctly, they create a more balanced system to protect landlords from abuse while maintaining due process for real tenants.
Senate Bill 1333 is a win for Texas property owners, but it comes with responsibilities. It gives you a faster, more direct way to remove unauthorized occupants but only when the situation clearly meets the criteria.
For most landlords, the key will be preparation: know your paperwork, stay in touch with local law enforcement, and make sure your properties are properly secured and documented.
If you’re unsure how this new law may affect you, or if you want to set up a management plan that keeps your investments protected, working with a professional Houston property management team can help you stay compliant and proactive.
Need help protecting your rental property under the new Texas laws? AREA Texas Realty & Management can guide you through SB 1333, handle documentation, and make sure your properties stay secure and profitable. Contact us by emailing Info@AreaTexas.com or call us at 713.972.1222.
