What is the 30-day notice before an HOA records an assessment lien in Texas?

Short Answer

Under Texas Property Code §209.0094, before recording an assessment lien, a Texas HOA must follow a multi-step notice process that includes certified mail notice and waiting periods before the lien can be filed. The notice must state the amount owed and give the homeowner an opportunity to cure the delinquency before the lien is recorded.

Relevant Texas Law

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Tex. Prop. Code §209.0094 — Requires a multi-step notice process before an HOA may record an assessment lien.
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Tex. Prop. Code §209.0062 — Requires HOAs with more than 14 lots to offer payment plans before recording an assessment lien.

What this means for homeowners

Texas law requires multiple notices before a lien can be recorded. You generally have more time to respond than many homeowners realize. Act promptly in writing.

Review the notice carefully to confirm the amount owed and breakdown of charges
Contact the HOA in writing to dispute any incorrect charges
Request a payment plan in writing — many Texas HOAs must offer one before recording a lien
Pay the full amount or execute a payment plan to prevent the lien from being recorded
Request written confirmation from the HOA that no lien will be recorded

I got a pre-lien notice — how much time do I have?

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What this means for board members

Texas law requires a multi-step notice process before an assessment lien can be recorded. Follow every step — a lien recorded prematurely may be subject to challenge.

✓ Follow the full notice sequence required by §209.0094 before recording any lien
✓ Send all required notices by certified mail to the owner's last known address
✓ Include the total amount owed with an itemized breakdown
✓ Do not record the lien until the full notice process is complete
✓ Retain all certified mail receipts as proof of proper service

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✕ Sending required notices by regular first-class mail instead of certified mail
✕ Recording the lien before the full notice process is complete
✕ Not including an itemized breakdown of charges in the notice