Terminating a lease agreement can be a complex process, requiring careful adherence to legal and contractual obligations. A well-drafted termination letter is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring a smooth transition. This article provides 18 sample letters covering various lease termination scenarios, from early termination due to job relocation to ending a month-to-month tenancy. Using these samples as a guide can help you create a clear, concise, and legally sound termination notice.
Each sample letter is tailored to a specific situation, highlighting the key information that should be included in your own termination notice. Pay close attention to the clauses regarding security deposit refunds, move-out procedures, and the effective termination date. Remember to consult with legal counsel if you have any doubts about the legality of your termination or if you anticipate any potential disputes with the landlord or tenant. Always keep a copy of the signed termination letter for your records.
The following lease termination letter samples are provided as a starting point. Always consult with a legal professional to ensure your letter complies with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Remember to adapt these templates to your specific circumstances, and to provide accurate and truthful information. These examples will provide you with all different scenerios of letters that you may need.
Below you find some of the key elements to include into a termination letter. This includes the date, landlord/tenant, and reason. By using these elements you will have a complete guide to help assist you in understanding more about lease termination letter requirements. If you require further details please consult with a professional.
Sample Lease Termination Letters
Sample 1: Month-to-Month Lease Termination by Tenant
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Notice of Termination of Month-to-Month Lease
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am terminating my month-to-month lease agreement for the property located at [Address of Property]. My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Lease Termination by Landlord (Non-Renewal)
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Notice of Non-Renewal of Lease Agreement
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I will not be renewing your lease agreement for the property located at [Address of Property], which expires on [Expiration Date].
You are required to vacate the premises on or before [Expiration Date]. Please ensure that all personal belongings are removed and the property is left in a clean and habitable condition, as specified in your lease agreement.
Please contact me to schedule a pre-move-out inspection. We will also discuss the procedure for returning your security deposit, subject to any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 3: Lease Termination Due to Job Relocation (Tenant)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Due to Job Relocation
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I must terminate my lease agreement for the property located at [Address of Property] due to a job relocation. My new job requires me to move to [City, State].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date]. I understand that breaking the lease may result in penalties, as outlined in our agreement. I am willing to cooperate fully to minimize any financial impact on your behalf. I will make every effort to find a suitable replacement tenant for the property. I have attached a copy of my employment offer letter as verification of my relocation.
Please advise me on the procedures for moving out, returning the keys, and the process for determining any applicable early termination fees or costs.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Lease Termination Due to Uninhabitable Conditions (Tenant)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Due to Uninhabitable Conditions
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
This letter serves as notification that I am terminating my lease agreement for the property located at [Address of Property] due to uninhabitable conditions. The following conditions exist: [Specifically list the uninhabitable conditions – e.g., persistent mold, lack of hot water, structural damage, etc.]. I have previously notified you of these issues on [Date(s) of previous notification(s)].
Despite my previous attempts to resolve these issues, they have not been adequately addressed. These conditions render the property unsafe and uninhabitable, and therefore, I am exercising my right to terminate the lease agreement, effective immediately.
I expect a full refund of my security deposit. Please contact me to arrange for the return of the keys. I am vacating the property immediately.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Mutual Agreement to Terminate Lease
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Mutual Agreement to Terminate Lease Agreement
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter confirms our mutual agreement to terminate the lease agreement for the property located at [Address of Property], effective [Termination Date]. This agreement is made on the following terms:
1. [Tenant’s Name] will vacate the premises on or before [Termination Date].
2. [Landlord’s Name] will return the security deposit of [Amount] to [Tenant’s Name], less any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear, as agreed upon during our inspection on [Date of Inspection]. The balance will be returned by [Date of Security Deposit Return].
3. Both parties agree to release each other from any further obligations under the original lease agreement, effective [Termination Date].
Please sign below to acknowledge your agreement to these terms.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Acknowledged:
[Tenant’s Signature]
[Tenant’s Typed Name]
[Date]
Sample 6: Lease Termination Due to Military Deployment (Tenant)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Due to Military Deployment – SCRA
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I am terminating my lease agreement for the property located at [Address of Property] due to military deployment. As per the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), I am entitled to terminate my lease with proper notice and documentation. I have been ordered to report for active duty on [Date of Deployment].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days after the next rent payment is due]. I have attached a copy of my military orders as proof of deployment.
Please advise me on the procedures for moving out, returning the keys, and the process for receiving my security deposit refund, as required by the SCRA.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Notice to Vacate for Property Sale (Landlord)
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Notice to Vacate Premises Due to Sale of Property
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that the property located at [Address of Property] has been sold, and the new owner requires possession. Your lease agreement will therefore terminate on [Date of Termination]. This date complies with the terms of your lease and any applicable local laws regarding notice periods for property sales.
You are required to vacate the premises on or before [Date of Termination]. Please ensure that all personal belongings are removed and the property is left in a clean and habitable condition, as specified in your lease agreement.
Please contact me to schedule a pre-move-out inspection and discuss the procedure for returning your security deposit, subject to any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear, as outlined in the lease agreement. We will be in touch with further information regarding the transition and the new owner’s contact information.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 8: Tenant Termination Request Due to Landlord’s Breach
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Termination of Lease Due to Landlord’s Breach of Contract
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my decision to terminate the lease agreement for the property located at [Address of Property] due to your breach of contract. The specific breaches are as follows: [Clearly outline the specific breaches, e.g., failure to make necessary repairs, unlawful entry, violation of quiet enjoyment]. I have previously notified you of these issues on [Date(s) of previous notifications].
Despite these notifications, the breaches have not been rectified. This has created an untenable living situation, making it necessary to terminate the lease. My last day of tenancy will be [Date]. I expect a full refund of my security deposit, as your breach of the lease invalidates any potential claims for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the refund of my security deposit. I will be vacating the property on or before [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 9: Lease Termination After Death of Tenant
[Executor’s Name]
[Executor’s Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Following the Death of Tenant – [Deceased Tenant’s Name]
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that [Deceased Tenant’s Name], the tenant of the property located at [Address of Property], passed away on [Date of Death]. I am the executor of their estate and am writing to formally terminate the lease agreement.
As the executor, I am responsible for managing the estate and liquidating assets, including the leasehold interest. We will be vacating the property on or before [Date of Vacating – allow reasonable time for clearing belongings]. We will ensure the property is left in reasonably clean condition, considering the circumstances.
Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and the process for handling the security deposit. We will require documentation of any deductions from the security deposit, along with a detailed explanation. Please direct all further communication regarding this matter to my attention.
Sincerely,
[Executor’s Signature]
[Executor’s Typed Name]
Sample 10: Landlord’s Notice of Termination for Cause (Violation of Lease)
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Notice of Termination of Lease for Cause – Violation of Lease Agreement
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your lease agreement for the property located at [Address of Property] due to a violation of the lease agreement. The specific violation is as follows: [Clearly and specifically state the violation, e.g., unauthorized pet, excessive noise, subletting without permission]. I have previously notified you of this violation on [Date(s) of previous notification(s)].
Despite these notifications, the violation has continued. Therefore, I am terminating your lease agreement, effective [Date of Termination – must comply with state law requirements for notice].
You are required to vacate the premises on or before [Date of Termination]. Failure to vacate by this date may result in legal action, including eviction proceedings. Please ensure that all personal belongings are removed and the property is left in a clean and habitable condition.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 11: Extension to Month-to-Month Termination
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Extension to Month-to-Month Termination
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating our month-to-month for the property located at [Address of Property]. due to [].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Notice of Lease Violation
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Notice of Lease Violation
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your month-to-month for the property located at [Address of Property]. due to [].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 13: 30-Day Notice of Lease Termination
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: 30-Day Notice of Lease Termination
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your month-to-month for the property located at [Address of Property]. due to [].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 14: Termination of Lease for Commercial Space
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Termination of Lease for Commercial Space
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your month-to-month for the property located at [Address of Property]. due to [].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 15: Tenant’s Notice to Landlord to Terminate Lease Early
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Tenant’s Notice to Landlord to Terminate Lease Early
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your month-to-month for the property located at [Address of Property]. due to [].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 16: Landlord’s Notice to Tenant to Terminate Lease
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Landlord’s Notice to Tenant to Terminate Lease
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your month-to-month for the property located at [Address of Property]. due to [].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 17: Agreement to End Lease Early
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Agreement to End Lease Early
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your month-to-month for the property located at [Address of Property]. due to [].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 18: Landlord Notice of Lease Termination
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Landlord Notice of Lease Termination
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating your month-to-month for the property located at [Address of Property]. due to [].
My last day of tenancy will be [Date – typically 30 days from the date of the letter].
I will ensure the property is clean and in good condition upon my departure. Please advise me on the procedure for returning the keys and arranging for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in the lease agreement.
Thank you for the tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
In conclusion, these sample lease termination letters provide a comprehensive guide for both landlords and tenants navigating the complexities of ending a lease agreement. Remember to adapt these templates to your specific circumstances, consult with legal counsel when necessary, and always keep thorough records of all communication and documentation. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a fair and legally compliant termination process.