Texas Senate Bill 38: New Protections for Property Owners Against Bad-Faith Tenants and Serial Squatters

June 16, 2025 – Texas has taken decisive action to protect property owners with the passage of Senate Bill 38, a law designed to address the growing challenges posed by bad-faith tenants and serial squatters. Under this new legislation, eviction cases can now be handled more efficiently, reducing the time and financial burden landlords often face when attempting to reclaim their property.

One of the most significant features of Senate Bill 38 is the ability to expedite the eviction process. The law allows courts to issue summary judgments in clear-cut cases, enabling property owners to win their cases without the need for lengthy trials. This provision is particularly beneficial in situations where the evidence is undeniable, saving time for both the courts and landlords.

Supporters of the bill argue that the existing eviction system is often exploited by serial squatters and bad-faith tenants who delay proceedings to remain in properties rent-free for extended periods. These delays not only harm individual property owners but can also result in financial strain, unpaid property taxes, and unnecessary maintenance costs.

Senate Bill 38 aims to streamline the adjudication process and eliminate unnecessary obstacles that prevent landlords from regaining control of their properties. By removing procedural inefficiencies, the bill offers much-needed relief to Texas property owners while preserving fair legal protections for tenants who act in good faith.

Lawmakers who supported the legislation emphasized that the bill is about restoring balance and ensuring that property rights are respected. With Senate Bill 38 now in effect, Texas landlords can pursue evictions more swiftly, minimizing financial losses and deterring serial squatting practices that have become a growing concern in many parts of the state.