Sometimes life changes, and you may need to end a lease earlier than planned. Whether you are a landlord needing your property back or a tenant who can’t stay, following the right legal steps is important to avoid problems.
When Can You End a Lease?
There are a few common reasons why a lease might need to end early:
- Landlord Needs the Property – A landlord can ask a tenant to leave if they or a close family member need to move in.
- Selling the Property – If a landlord sells the home, the new owner may want the tenant to leave.
- Non-Payment of Rent – If a tenant does not pay rent, the landlord can take legal action to remove them.
Giving Proper Notice
Both landlords and tenants must give written notice to end a lease. The amount of notice required depends on the type of lease:
- Fixed-Term Lease – Usually, the lease must run until the agreed end date unless both sides agree to end it early.
- Month-to-Month Lease – Typically, 30-60 days’ notice is required.
Making an Agreement to End Early
If both the landlord and tenant agree, they can sign a simple termination agreement. This should include:
- The date the tenant will move out.
- How rent and the security deposit will be handled.
- Any other financial arrangements needed.
Ending a lease early is possible if done correctly. Providing written notice, communicating clearly, and following legal rules will help both landlords and tenants avoid disputes and ensure a smooth transition.