Ending an apartment lease requires careful planning and clear communication with your landlord or property manager. A well-written lease termination letter is crucial for ensuring a smooth departure and avoiding potential disputes. It’s vital to understand your lease agreement’s terms regarding notice periods, early termination clauses, and any associated fees. This article provides 18 sample letters covering a variety of common scenarios, helping you tailor your communication to your specific circumstances.
These sample letters cover situations like fulfilling the lease term, early termination due to job relocation, military deployment, or health reasons, and more. Remember to always send your letter via certified mail with return receipt requested. This provides proof that your landlord received your notice. Additionally, keeping a copy of the letter for your records is essential. Before sending any letter, carefully review your lease agreement and consult with a legal professional if you have any doubts about your rights and obligations.
When drafting your letter, be sure to include key information such as your name, apartment address, lease start and end dates, and the date you intend to vacate the premises. Clearly state your reason for leaving, even if it’s simply that the lease term is expiring. Offer to schedule a walk-through inspection with your landlord to assess any potential damages and ensure the return of your security deposit. Professionalism and clarity in your communication can go a long way in maintaining a positive landlord-tenant relationship even as you depart.
Sample Letters to End Apartment Lease
Sample 1: Standard Lease Termination
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Notice of Lease Termination
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I will be vacating the premises located at [Your Apartment Address] on [Date of Move-Out], which is the end date of my current lease agreement.
I will ensure the apartment is left in clean and good condition, as outlined in the lease agreement. I would appreciate it if we could schedule a walk-through inspection prior to my departure to assess any potential damages.
Please send my security deposit to [Your Forwarding Address]. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Lease Termination with 30-Day Notice
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: 30-Day Notice of Lease Termination
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
This letter serves as a 30-day notice of my intent to vacate the property located at [Your Apartment Address]. I will be moving out on or before [Date of Move-Out].
I understand that I am required to provide 30 days’ notice as per our lease agreement. I will leave the apartment clean and free of debris. Please advise on the best way to return the keys and schedule a final inspection.
Kindly forward my security deposit to [Your Forwarding Address] upon completion of the inspection and deduction of any legitimate charges. Thank you.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Early Lease Termination – Job Relocation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Request for Early Lease Termination – Job Relocation
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to request an early termination of my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address]. My lease is currently scheduled to end on [Lease End Date].
Unfortunately, I have accepted a new job opportunity that requires me to relocate to [New City/State]. My start date is [Start Date]. I am providing as much notice as possible, and I am willing to cooperate fully to find a suitable replacement tenant. I can provide documentation from my employer as proof of my relocation.
I understand that early lease termination may result in penalties as outlined in our lease agreement. I am prepared to discuss these penalties and explore potential solutions to minimize any financial burden. Please let me know what documentation or steps are required from my end to facilitate this process. Please send my security deposit (minus any agreed-upon deductions) to [Your Forwarding Address].
Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Early Lease Termination – Military Deployment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Early Lease Termination Due to Military Deployment
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
This letter serves as notification that I am requesting early termination of my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address] due to military deployment. My lease is scheduled to end on [Lease End Date].
I have received official orders to deploy to [Location], effective [Deployment Date]. I have attached a copy of my military orders as proof of deployment, as required by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). My move-out date will be [Date of Move-Out].
As per the SCRA, I am entitled to terminate my lease without penalty. I request that my security deposit be returned in full to [Your Forwarding Address] within the timeframe stipulated by law. Please let me know if you require any further documentation.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Early Lease Termination – Health Reasons
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Request for Early Lease Termination – Medical Reasons
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to request an early termination of my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address], due to unforeseen and serious medical reasons. My lease is scheduled to end on [Lease End Date].
Due to [Briefly describe health reason – optional, but recommended to show good faith], I require a living environment closer to medical facilities/family support/etc. [Expand on why moving is necessary]. My physician recommends I relocate as soon as possible. While I am unable to provide detailed medical records, I am willing to provide a letter from my doctor stating the necessity of this move. My intended move-out date is [Date of Move-Out].
I understand that this may result in penalties as outlined in the lease agreement. I am prepared to discuss these penalties and explore potential solutions, such as helping to find a replacement tenant. I request a prompt reply outlining the necessary procedures. Please forward my security deposit (minus any agreed-upon deductions) to [Your Forwarding Address].
Thank you for your consideration and understanding during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Request to Sublet
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Request to Sublet Apartment at [Your Apartment Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to request permission to sublet my apartment located at [Your Apartment Address]. My current lease agreement is valid until [Lease End Date]. I am requesting to sublet for the period of [Start Date of Sublease] to [End Date of Sublease] because [Briefly explain reason for subletting: e.g., temporary work assignment, travel].
I have identified a potential subtenant, [Subtenant’s Name], whose contact information is [Subtenant’s Phone Number] and [Subtenant’s Email Address]. I am prepared to provide you with their application and credit information for your review and approval, as per our lease agreement and any applicable local laws. I understand that I remain ultimately responsible for the apartment and the actions of the subtenant.
Please advise on the specific requirements and paperwork needed to proceed with this request. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: End of Lease – Not Renewing
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Notice of Non-Renewal of Lease
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
This letter serves as formal notification that I will *not* be renewing my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address]. My current lease is scheduled to expire on [Lease End Date], and I plan to vacate the premises on or before that date. This letter is provided with [Number] days’ notice, satisfying the requirements outlined in my lease.
I will ensure the apartment is left in clean and good condition, as outlined in the lease agreement. Please let me know your preferred method for returning the keys and scheduling a final walk-through inspection.
Kindly forward my security deposit to [Your Forwarding Address] upon completion of the inspection and deduction of any legitimate charges. Thank you for being my landlord.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Lease Termination Due to Uninhabitable Conditions
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Due to Uninhabitable Conditions at [Your Apartment Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to formally notify you of my intent to terminate my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address], effective immediately. This termination is due to the uninhabitable conditions of the apartment, which constitute a breach of our lease agreement and a violation of my implied warranty of habitability. My lease is current set to end on [Lease End Date].
Specifically, the following conditions exist: [Detailed list of issues: e.g., mold infestation, lack of hot water for extended periods, broken windows, pest infestation, etc.]. I have previously notified you of these issues on [Dates of Previous Notifications], and despite repeated requests, these problems have not been adequately addressed or resolved. [Optional: Include copies of previous communication]. These conditions make the apartment unsafe and unsuitable for living.
Therefore, I am terminating my lease agreement effective immediately. I will be vacating the property by [Date of Move-Out]. I expect a full refund of my security deposit, as well as reimbursement for any rent paid for the period during which the apartment was uninhabitable. I will provide a forwarding address of [Your Forwarding Address]. Please confirm receipt of this notice and your plan for returning my deposit.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 9: Mutual Agreement to Terminate Lease
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Agreement for Mutual Termination of Lease
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
This letter confirms our agreement to mutually terminate the lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address]. As we discussed on [Date of Discussion], both parties have agreed to end the lease, which is currently set to expire on [Lease End Date], on [Date of Termination].
As part of this agreement, [Clearly state terms: e.g., security deposit return, payment of any outstanding fees, condition of the property upon move-out]. I will ensure the apartment is clean and free of debris upon my departure.
Please sign and return a copy of this letter to acknowledge your agreement to these terms. I will provide a forwarding address of [Your Forwarding Address] for the return of my security deposit (if applicable, according to our agreement). Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Request to Assign Lease
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Request to Assign Lease for Apartment at [Your Apartment Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to request permission to assign my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address]. My current lease agreement is valid until [Lease End Date]. Due to [Briefly explain reason for assignment, e.g., relocation, change in circumstances], I am seeking to transfer my lease to another party.
I have identified a potential assignee, [Assignee’s Name], whose contact information is [Assignee’s Phone Number] and [Assignee’s Email Address]. They are willing to assume all the responsibilities and obligations of the lease agreement for the remaining term. I am prepared to provide you with their application, credit information, and any other documentation you require for your review and approval. I understand that the assignment is subject to your approval and the assignee meeting your standard tenant criteria.
Please advise on the specific requirements and paperwork needed to proceed with this request, including any fees or charges associated with the lease assignment. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 11: Termination for Domestic Violence (where applicable by law)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination under [State] Law – Domestic Violence
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
This letter is to inform you that I am terminating my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address], effective [Date of Termination, usually 30 days from the date of the letter], under the provisions of [Cite the specific state law relating to lease termination for victims of domestic violence. **This law MUST exist in your state; research it.**]. My current lease is set to expire on [Lease End Date].
As required by [State Law Citation], I am providing you with [Specify required documentation: e.g., a copy of a protective order, a police report]. This documentation confirms that I am a victim of domestic violence and am eligible to terminate my lease early under the protections afforded by law.
I understand that I may be responsible for rent owed up to the termination date specified in this notice. Please inform me of the procedures for the return of my security deposit, as outlined in [State Law Citation], which should be forwarded to [Your Forwarding Address]. I request that you keep this matter confidential, as required by law. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Termination Due to Landlord Breach of Contract
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Due to Landlord Breach of Contract at [Your Apartment Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to formally notify you of my intent to terminate my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address], effective immediately, due to your breach of contract. My lease is scheduled to end on [Lease End Date].
You have breached the lease agreement by [Clearly and specifically describe the breaches: e.g., failing to provide necessary repairs, repeatedly entering the property without notice, failing to maintain common areas, violating quiet enjoyment]. For example, on [Date], I notified you of [Problem], and you have failed to address it within a reasonable timeframe. Another instance occurred on [Date] when [Another problem]. These failures constitute a significant breach of our agreement, making it impossible for me to continue living peacefully and safely in the apartment. I have attached copies of previous communication as evidence of these breaches.
Therefore, I am terminating my lease agreement effective immediately. I will be vacating the property by [Date of Move-Out]. I expect a full refund of my security deposit, as well as reimbursement for any rent paid for the period during which the contract was breached. I will provide a forwarding address of [Your Forwarding Address]. Please confirm receipt of this notice and your plan for returning my deposit and any applicable reimbursements.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 13: Month-to-Month Lease Termination
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Termination of Month-to-Month Lease
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
This letter serves as formal notification that I am terminating my month-to-month lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address]. I will be vacating the premises on [Date of Move-Out]. This provides you with the required [Number] days’ notice as stipulated in our agreement.
I will ensure the apartment is left in clean and good condition. Please advise on the best way to return the keys and schedule a final walk-through inspection.
Kindly forward my security deposit to [Your Forwarding Address] upon completion of the inspection and deduction of any legitimate charges. Thank you.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 14: Lease Termination Due to Illegal Activity on Premises
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Due to Illegal Activity at [Your Apartment Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to formally notify you of my intent to terminate my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address], effective immediately, due to illegal activity taking place on the premises that affects my safety and well-being. My lease is scheduled to end on [Lease End Date].
Specifically, [Describe the illegal activity clearly and factually, without speculation. E.g., “I have witnessed suspected drug dealing in the hallway,” or “I have repeatedly heard extremely loud and disruptive parties late at night that I believe involve illegal substances.”]. I have previously reported this activity to you on [Dates of previous reports, if any] and have also contacted the authorities [Mention if you contacted the police and provide the report number, if available]. Your failure to address this situation constitutes a breach of my lease agreement and creates an unsafe living environment.
Therefore, I am terminating my lease agreement effective immediately. I will be vacating the property by [Date of Move-Out]. I expect a full refund of my security deposit. Please send the deposit to [Your Forwarding Address]. I advise you to take immediate action to address the illegal activity on the property.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 15: Notice of Intent to Vacate After Lease Term (Landlord Initiated)
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Date]
[Tenant’s Name]
[Tenant’s Address]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Vacate – [Tenant’s Name], [Apartment Address]
Dear [Tenant’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that we will *not* be offering a lease renewal for the property located at [Apartment Address]. Your current lease agreement will expire on [Lease End Date], and we expect you to vacate the premises on or before that date. This notice is provided with [Number] days’ notice, satisfying the requirements outlined in your lease.
Please ensure the apartment is left in clean and good condition, as outlined in the lease agreement. We will contact you to schedule a final walk-through inspection prior to your departure to assess any potential damages.
Your security deposit will be processed and returned to the forwarding address you provide, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, after the inspection and deduction of any legitimate charges. Thank you for your tenancy.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name/Property Management Company Name]
Sample 16: Requesting Clarification of Lease Terms
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Request for Clarification of Lease Terms Regarding Termination – [Your Apartment Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to request clarification on certain aspects of my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address], specifically related to the termination process. My lease is currently set to end on [Lease End Date].
I am particularly interested in understanding the specific requirements for providing notice of non-renewal, including the required timeframe and the acceptable methods of delivery. Additionally, I would appreciate clarification on any potential fees or penalties associated with early termination, even if I don’t currently plan to terminate early. I would also like to confirm the process for the return of my security deposit, including the timeframe for return and the criteria for deductions.
Understanding these details will help me ensure I am in full compliance with the lease agreement. Thank you for your time and clarification. I look forward to your prompt response.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 17: Termination Because of Harassment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Because of Harassment at [Your Apartment Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to notify you of my intention to terminate my lease agreement, effective [Date of Termination] due to the continued harrassment from [neighbor name, maintenance name, other party]. My lease is due to expire on [lease End Date]
Since [date], I have experienced the following instances of harrassment:
1. [Harassment #1]
2. [Harassment #2]
3. [Harassment #3]
I request that you let me out of my lease immediately.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 18: Termination Because of Construction
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]
Subject: Lease Termination Because of Construction at [Your Apartment Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to notify you of my intention to terminate my lease agreement, effective [Date of Termination] due to the construction happening at [neighbor apartment] that is harrassment My lease is due to expire on [lease End Date]
The construction and demolition started [Start Date] and is preventing my ability to live in my apartment due to the following reasons:
1. [Reason #1]
2. [Reason #2]
3. [Reason #3]
I request that you let me out of my lease immediately.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion
Using these sample letters as a starting point will help ensure you communicate effectively with your landlord when ending your apartment lease. Remember to always tailor the letter to your specific situation and consult your lease agreement for any specific requirements. Proper documentation and clear communication are essential for a smooth transition.