A “Sample Letter To The Landlord For Terminating Lease” is a written notice. It tells your landlord that you’re ending your lease agreement. People write this when they need to move out before their lease officially ends.
Need to break your lease? You’re in the right place. We know writing this letter can feel daunting.
That’s why we’re sharing letter templates. These samples make it easy. You can quickly write your own lease termination letter.
Sample Letter To The Landlord For Terminating Lease
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
**Subject: Termination of Lease Agreement**
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notification that I will be terminating my lease agreement for the property located at [Your Apartment Address]. The lease is currently scheduled to end on [Original Lease End Date].
I will be vacating the premises on or before [Proposed Termination Date]. This is [Number] days/months notice, as required by our lease agreement.
I request confirmation of the termination date and information regarding the return of my security deposit. Please send this information to [Your Forwarding Address].
I will ensure the property is left clean and in good condition, as per the terms of our lease.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
How to Write Letter To The Landlord For Terminating Lease
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
The subject line is your clarion call. It needs to be precise and immediately tell your landlord the letter’s purpose.
- Be direct: “Lease Termination Notice – [Your Name] – [Apartment Number]”
- Avoid ambiguity: Steer clear of vague terms.
- Conciseness matters: Keep it brief, ideally under ten words.
Salutation: Setting the Tone
The way you address your landlord initially can subtly influence their receptiveness. Aim for professional courtesy.
- Formal is favored: “Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. [Landlord’s Last Name],”
- Avoid informality: Refrain from using first names unless explicitly invited to do so.
- If unsure of the name: “To Whom It May Concern,” can suffice, though it’s less personal.
Body: The Meat of the Matter
This section is where you articulate your intent, providing pertinent details and adhering to the lease stipulations.
- State your intent upfront: “This letter serves as formal notification that I will be vacating the premises located at [Your Address] on [Date].”
- Reference the lease: Mention any clauses related to early termination, such as required notice periods or penalties.
- Provide a rationale (optional): Briefly explain your reason for leaving, without oversharing. A simple “due to unforeseen circumstances” can be adequate.
- Reiterate your move-out date: Leave no room for misinterpretation.
- Offer to cooperate: State your willingness to schedule a pre-move-out inspection.
Addressing Potential Penalties
Acknowledge any financial ramifications stemming from your decision to terminate the lease prematurely. Demonstrating awareness can mitigate potential disputes.
- Acknowledge the lease terms: “I understand that terminating the lease early may incur certain penalties as outlined in our agreement.”
- Express intention to fulfill obligations: “I am prepared to discuss fulfilling these obligations and seek an amicable resolution.”
- Propose solutions (if applicable): Suggest potential replacements or offer to assist in finding a new tenant.
Return of Security Deposit: Setting Expectations
Clearly state your expectations regarding the return of your security deposit, referencing the lease agreement’s stipulations.
- Refer to the lease: “As per the lease agreement, I anticipate the return of my security deposit, less any legitimate deductions, within [Number] days of my departure.”
- Provide forwarding address: Include your new address for the deposit check.
- Request itemized deductions: Ask for a detailed list of any deductions made from the deposit.
Final Inspection and Key Return
Outline the logistics of the final inspection and the process for returning the keys to the property.
- Propose a final walkthrough: “I am available to conduct a final walkthrough of the property on [Date] or [Date].”
- Specify key return method: State how you intend to return the keys (e.g., in person, via mail).
- Confirm contact information: Ensure the landlord has your current phone number and email address.
Closing: Cordial and Professional
End the letter on a polite and professional note, reinforcing your willingness to cooperate.
- Express gratitude: “Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this matter.”
- Offer further assistance: “Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.”
- Sign off professionally: “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your full name and signature.
Frequently Asked Questions: Terminating Your Lease
Terminating a lease agreement requires careful consideration of the terms outlined in your contract. This FAQ aims to provide clarity on common queries related to writing a lease termination letter.
What information should I include in my lease termination letter?
Your letter should include your name, address, landlord’s name, property address, date of the letter, termination date, reason for termination (if applicable), and your forwarding address for the return of your security deposit.
How much notice should I give my landlord when terminating my lease?
Refer to your lease agreement for the specified notice period. Typically, this is 30 or 60 days before the intended termination date. Adhering to this timeframe is crucial to avoid penalties.
Can I terminate my lease early?
Early termination is possible, but often involves penalties or fees as outlined in your lease. Negotiate with your landlord or explore options like finding a suitable replacement tenant to mitigate costs.
What if my landlord doesn’t respond to my lease termination letter?
If you receive no response, send the letter via certified mail with return receipt requested. This provides proof of delivery and receipt to support your claim that the landlord was notified.
What should I do after sending my lease termination letter?
After sending the letter, maintain communication with your landlord, ensure the property is left in good condition as per the lease agreement, and confirm arrangements for the return of your security deposit.