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HB 1139

Relating to venue in certain actions involving a contract for an improvement to real property.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Eddie Morales and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1139 restricts construction contract lawsuits to the county where the property is located, eliminating broader venue options currently available to plaintiffs.

Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence
#business&commerce--general(i0050) #civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #courts--civilprocedure(i0135) #propertyinterests--realproperty(i0595)
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Bill Summary · HB 1139

Legislative bill overview

HB 1139 modifies Texas civil procedure rules to establish specific venue requirements for lawsuits involving contracts for improvements to real property (construction contracts). The bill restricts where such cases can be filed by designating the county where the property is located as the proper venue, rather than allowing plaintiffs broader options under current rules.

Why is this important

Venue rules determine which court can hear a case and directly impact litigation costs, convenience, and outcomes for homeowners, contractors, and property owners. This change could reduce frivolous filings or forum shopping by construction-related parties, but may also create barriers for some plaintiffs seeking to sue in more convenient locations or counties with different legal precedents.

Potential points of contention

  • Plaintiff burden: Homeowners or contractors in one county suing over property in another county would be forced to litigate far from their location, increasing legal costs and attorney accessibility
  • Defendant protection vs. fairness: While defendants gain predictability about where suits will be filed, this may disadvantage smaller contractors or homeowners with limited resources to travel for litigation
  • Definition scope: Ambiguity about what constitutes a "contract for improvement to real property" could lead to jurisdictional disputes and appeals over which rules apply

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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