http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=texas+landlord+and+tenant go to the third link down Texas Landlord Tenant information.> Landlord’s Lien. A landlord’s lien is a state law that allows a landlord to remove a tenant's property from the rental unit in order to secure payment of delinquent rent. There must be a statement in a written lease, either underlined or in bold print, that allows the landlord the right to enter a rental unit and remove the tenant's personal property.
The rent must be delinquent in whole or in part in order for a landlord to seize any items. The law only allows a landlord to take certain non-exempt items such as televisions, VCRs, stereos, or computers. Furthermore, the landlord must exercise a lien peacefully, so if a tenant refuses to allow a landlord entry or to remove the items, the landlord cannot exercise the lien. When the lien is exercised, the landlord must leave a notice of entry along with a written inventory of the items removed. The landlord must promptly return the items as soon as all fees and rent are paid. The landlord can charge money for packing, removing, or storing the items but only if authorized in a written lease.>>> What Is An Illegal Eviction?
An illegal eviction occurs when a landlord illegally denies a tenant access to the rental unit or a tenant’s property is removed without a court order and the removal:
1. is not the result of abandonment and/or
2. is not the exercise of a landlord’s lien.
The landlord is also prohibited from removing a door, window or any mechanism connected to a door or window; or remove furniture, fixtures or appliances furnished by the landlord from premises leased to a tenant unless the landlord removes the item for a bona fide repair or replacement. If any of these items are removed and not promptly returned, this could be considered a constructive eviction and the landlord could be liable under the Removal of Property and Exclusion of Residential Tenant law.
If a landlord violates this law, the tenant can recover possession of the premises or terminate the lease. In addition, the tenant may sue the landlord for a civil penalty of one month's rent, $500, actual damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney's fees. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>ANY part of this you have trouble understanding try the links above to find a attorney to help you go over it , IF the LL has violated your states laws then the Attorney can at least advise you on how to best proceed.
