How to Terminate a Rental Lease

Look for a re-letting clause if you need to terminate your lease agreement early.

The tenant and landlord both sign a rental-lease agreement, or contract, before the tenant can move into the rental property. A signed lease contract is legally binding and obligates both parties to adhere to its terms. Should either party decide to breach the contract, the offending party could face legal consequences. However, if you need to terminate your rental lease, you have options.

Instructions

1. Contact your landlord. If you need to terminate your lease early, your landlord might allow you to look for another tenant to move into the property. If another tenant is an option, advertise for a renter. Place an ad online and in newspapers. Let acquaintances and friends know that you're looking for a tenant to take over your lease.

2. Look for a re-letting clause in your contract. Lease agreements often contain a clause stating that you can pay a fee equivalent to one month's rent if you need to move out early. Although the fee can vary, the clause is normally included in most leases. You will need to pay the re-letting fee on or before your move-out date.

3. Submit a written move-out notice. Even if your lease is coming to its end, tenants normally require at least a 30-day notice of what you intend to do at the end of the lease term. Lease contracts often state that if you don't submit a written notice, the lease automatically converts to a month-to-month lease. Month-to-month rates are normally higher.

4. Review your contract and determine if there's been a breach of contract. State law requires that landlords provide safe housing and utilities to their tenants. Landlords must also fulfill any specific written promises for services or amenities. If your landlord has breached the lease agreement in any way, you may have a legal basis for terminating your rental lease early.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact an experienced real estate attorney if you feel you have a legal basis for early termination of your rental lease agreement.

• You can face legal prosecution if you move out early of a rental property without paying the re-letting fee or making the proper arrangements with your landlord.

References

• Washington State Bar Association: Landlord-Tenant

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Utah Legal Services: Mutual Termination of Rental Agreement