Title: Houston, Texas: Understanding Unlawful Self-Help Used by Landlords — A Tenant's Letter to the Landlord Keywords: Houston Texas, letter, tenant, landlord, unlawful self-help, gain possession Introduction: Dear [Landlord's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to address a matter of great concern that has recently come to my attention. It has come to my knowledge that you have employed unlawful self-help methods in an attempt to gain possession of the property I am leasing from you. As a responsible tenant, I believe it is essential to discuss this issue promptly and resolve it amicably. 1. Description of Unlawful Self-Help: Unlawful self-help refers to actions taken by a landlord without seeking proper legal recourse to gain possession of a property. It is essential to understand that these self-help measures are illegal under Texas law and can result in severe consequences for the landlord. Unlawful self-help may include: a) Changing locks: Altering or replacing the locks on the property without providing proper notice to the tenant. b) Shutting off utilities: Disrupting essential services, such as electricity, water, or gas, which are necessary for the tenant's safe and comfortable living conditions. c) Removing personal belongings: Removing or seizing the tenant's personal belongings from the premises. d) Harassment or intimidation: Engaging in aggressive behavior, threats, or creating an unhealthy atmosphere to coerce the tenant into leaving. 2. Identification of Specific Incidents: In light of the above, I would like to bring specific incidents to your attention where I suspect unlawful self-help actions have been taken: a) Incident 1: On [date], I discovered that the locks on the main entrance were changed without any prior notice, preventing me from entering the property and accessing my personal belongings. b) Incident 2: On [date], the electricity, which is included in my lease agreement, suddenly stopped working without any explanation from your end. This action has caused great inconvenience and distress. 3. Legal Consequences: It is crucial to emphasize that the usage of unlawful self-help measures not only violates the terms of our lease agreement but also contravenes the Texas Property Code. If these actions persist, I may have to seek legal remedies available to me, including filing a complaint with the appropriate authorities and pursuing a civil lawsuit for damages incurred. 4. Request for Immediate Resolution: Given the seriousness of this matter, I kindly request that you cease all unlawful self-help actions immediately. I also request that you meet with me personally to discuss this issue and find an appropriate and legal solution for both parties involved. I believe resolving this matter outside of formal legal channels would be in the best interest of everyone concerned. Furthermore, I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and hope we can resolve this dispute with mutual respect and understanding. Yours sincerely, [Your Name] [Urgent Contact Information]
Para su conveniencia, debajo del texto en español le brindamos la versión completa de este formulario en inglés. For your convenience, the complete English version of this form is attached below the Spanish version.