AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Mayor Steve Adler on Friday issued a new order extending the moratorium on residential evictions until Sept. 30, as some renters are still struggling to make ends meet amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The order is effective immediately and, unless terminated or modified by a future order, prohibits the issuance of notices to vacate and the removal of a tenant's property by a property owner. It also states that it is in the public's interest to prohibit the seizure of a tenant's nonexempt property subject to a lien created under the Texas Property Code.
This order does not forgive rent payments. Instead, it gives renters extra time to pay what might be overdue.
Travis County Judge Sam Biscoe on July 22 issued a similar order, which also extends the prohibition of eviction proceedings to Sept. 30.
Residents have access to multiple eviction prevention and homeless programs that support low-income tenants with legal assistance, emergency grants for rent or utilities, alternate housing, short-term motel vouchers, or placement in a local shelter.
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Travis County has online resources for tenants facing eviction. The Travis County Sheriff’s Office also has a brochure for Evictions and Lease Terminations. An extensive description of tenant rights in Travis County can be found through the Travis County Law Library and Self-Help Center.
In addition, the Austin Tenant's Council offers counseling to prepare for and understand the eviction process, including reviewing the notices tenants have received and assisting tenants with preparing for court if necessary. This service has a Spanish option.
The City of Austin has passed a Tenant Relocation Assistance ordinance to make sure landlords provide appropriate and timely information to tenants in the event of the demolition of a multifamily building of five or more units, rezoning, or the redevelopment of a mobile home park. For more information about the ordinance and requirements, visit the Tenant Relocation Assistance Policy website.
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