How to Give Notice for a Rental Property

Check your lease before writing your notice letter.

If you reach the end of your lease and find an ideal new place on the other side of town, you will need to tell your landlord of your plans to move out. Although you may want to leave as soon as possible, leaving without notification puts your security deposit at risk. If you supply a written notice to vacate within a time period approved by your landlord, you are likely to get your security deposit returned and be in good standing with your landlord.

Instructions

1. Read your lease agreement carefully. Your lease will include the time frame you have for notifying your landlord of your intent to vacate the property. Typically, landlord require 30 or 60 days advanced notice.

2. Compose a "Notice to Vacate" letter. Include the date in the header and write your landlord's full name and address right below it.

3. Address your landlord directly in the salutation of the letter, using his full name.

4. Explain your intent to vacate the property and not to renew your lease agreement in the body of the letter. Include the date you plan to move out, request an appointment with the landlord so you can complete the final walk through and return your keys and provide your new mailing address.

5. Mail the letter to your landlord certified mail. This will give you proof of receipt if your landlord claims he did not receive the Notice to Vacate. Ensure that you send your landlord a "Notice to Vacate" within the specified time listed on the lease.

6. Schedule a time with the landlord to complete the final walk through after the landlord receives your notice to vacate.

7. Meet the landlord at the property on the day of your appointment. Complete the final walk through with the landlord and fill out any applicable paperwork, such as any deductions or receipt for your security deposit. Give the landlord the keys to the property including keys to the main entrance, a locking security fence or a mailbox.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean your rental property before completing the final walk through. Do not forget to clean inside appliances, dust ceiling fans and light fixtures, and change the light bulbs and air filters. A clean rental will help you get your security deposit back.

• Keep a copy of any correspondence between you and the landlord. You may need to provide these in court if the landlord does not refund your deposit.

References

• The Landlord Protection Agency: Tenant Wants to Vacate
• Drexel University: Sample Letter End of Lease End of Tenancy