Lease Agreements & Early Termination Clauses

An early termination clause is part of many lease agreements. It states the requirements of a tenant in the event that he must break his lease prematurely.

Significance

An early termination clause allows a tenant's release from the lease at a date earlier than that agreed upon. A tenant chooses this option for many reasons, including a job transfer or the purchase of a home.

Features

Some early termination clauses state that a tenant must provide a 30-day notice before vacating the property. Such clauses often require the tenant to forfeit her security deposit, and she may be required to pay an additional month's rent. Some clauses even require that a tenant continues paying rent until the property is rented to another party.

Requirements

Early termination clauses vary, so it is vital that a tenant follows the specific procedures outlined in his lease agreement. Some allow a tenant early termination, but only if the tenant is in good standing with the landlord.

References

• Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem, Georgia: Rental Rights and Responsibilities
• Scott Clark Law: Early Termination of Lease Agreement