Moving is a complex process. Between scheduling your movers, packing your belongings, and updating your address - notifying your landlord may seem like an afterthought. In fact, it's an important step requiring thoughtfulness, clear communication, and a bit of planning in order to protect you from legal and financial penalties. Whether you’re a seasoned tenant or first-time renter, this article will guide you through the process. You’ll not only learn how to tell your landlord you’re moving out, but also find tips on timing and professional communication that will end your tenancy on good terms.
Importance of Giving Notice
Landlord-tenant agreements are protected by state and local laws. As a result, early termination often brings legal repercussions. Besides losing your security deposit, you may be obliged to pay rent longer than you'd originally planned. The landlord may even be entitled to take you to small claims court to recover lost revenue. By contrast, giving your landlord notice in a timely and respectful manner ensures a smooth transition. It helps your landlord find a new tenant and prevents disputes that may endanger the money you put down when you moved in.
All renters are required to give their landlord proper notice before moving out. A 30-day notice is standard, but states often have different stipulations for long-term and short-term leases. Periodic leases, which renew for a set period of time (e.g. week-to-week or month-to-month) normally require a notice period at least as long as your rental period.
Leases that last for more than a year often require sixty or ninety days notice, though states may make exceptions based on circumstances. Seniors, military personnel, and women fleeing domestic violence are often allowed to terminate their lease early without penalty. All these conditions should be laid out in your rental agreement, as well as the consequences for breaking them. Read over the document before giving notice, to avoid any legal complications.
If you’re leaving early, contact your landlord as soon as possible to explain your reasons. Be honest. Under certain circumstances, they may be willing to terminate the lease and waive the penalties. Otherwise, make sure you’re prepared for the possible financial repercussions.
All notices should be in writing, so you and your landlord have proof of the agreed move-out date, as well as any other relevant conditions, such as the reason for vacating. Email the letter or deliver it to the property manager and make sure it includes:
After sending your notice, don’t forget to pay the last month’s rent as well. If you’re delivering the letter directly to the property owner or leasing office, it’s often a good idea to include your final rent payment along with it.
[Your Name]
[Rental Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to officially notify you that instead of renewing my lease, I will be vacating [rental address] when the agreement expires on [date]. This letter will serve as my thirty day notice to quit the premises.
I have kept the unit in excellent condition and enjoyed my time here. I would also like to request a walkthrough to go over the unit and note any issues.
Please let me know if there are any additional steps I need to complete before vacating the property. Please send my security deposit to my forwarding address within thirty days of my departure: [Forwarding Address].
If you have any questions, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
I look forward to hearing from you to arrange our walkthrough and final steps. Thank you for your understanding and for the opportunity to rent your property.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Besides packing up your belongings, use the notice period to clean the apartment and repair any damage beyond normal wear and tear. Take a few pictures as well, to provide visual evidence that you met your obligations - in case there’s any disagreement over deductions to your security deposit.
Gather all keys, fobs, and access cards so you can return them to the landlord or leasing office after you’ve removed your belongings. Contact your utility company as well and cancel your service. Schedule the final date for the day after you leave, so they don’t continue charging you after you’ve moved out.
The purpose of a walkthrough is to confirm that you’ve left the apartment clean and undamaged. (Minor harm, such as scuffed paint, nail holes, and worn carpeting, should not be deducted from your security deposit.) The property owner will also check to make sure the appliances and fixtures are all working properly. Ideally, you’ll be able to schedule your walkthrough after you’ve finished moving out. However, if you’re moving long-distance, this may not be possible. In this case, you’ll have to arrange for the walkthrough for a date closer to your move-out time or ask a friend or relative to attend the meeting on your behalf.
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