Lease Termination Letter Template
A lease termination letter formally ends a tenancy. You state the termination date, the reason, and move-out instructions. The tenant knows exactly what to do and when.
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What Your Termination Letter Must Include
An incomplete termination letter can be challenged in court. Include everything the first time.
- Property address — Full address including unit number
- Termination date — The exact date tenancy ends
- Reason for termination — Lease end, violations, mutual agreement
- Move-out instructions — Keys, cleaning, final walkthrough
- Deposit information — When and how deposit will be returned
Important: Ask for a forwarding address in the letter. You'll need it to send the deposit disposition. Put the request in writing so they can't claim you never asked.
5 Mistakes That Complicate Terminations
Wrong termination type
Termination at lease end is different from termination for cause. Use the wrong letter and it may not be enforceable.
Insufficient notice period
Most leases require 30-60 days notice to terminate, even at lease end. Check your lease terms. Check state law.
No move-out instructions
If you don't tell them to clean, return keys, and schedule inspection, don't be surprised when they don't do it.
Verbal termination only
Phone calls and texts aren't enough. Put it in writing. Keep proof of delivery. This protects you in court.
Forgetting just cause requirements
In rent-controlled areas, you may need a valid reason to terminate. "I want them out" isn't enough.
Lease Termination Letter Example
LEASE TERMINATION NOTICE
Date: [Date]
To: [Tenant Name]
Re: [Property Address]
This letter serves as formal notice that your lease agreement dated [Original Lease Date] will terminate on [Termination Date].
Reason: End of lease term / Mutual agreement / [Other reason]
Move-Out Instructions:
- Remove all personal belongings
- Clean the unit thoroughly
- Return all keys to [Location/Address]
- Provide forwarding address for deposit return
Your security deposit will be processed within [State deadline] days of move-out per state law.
Sincerely,
[Landlord Name]
This is a simplified example. The generator above creates a complete letter with all required sections and proper formatting.
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Complete instructions included
Move-out checklist, key return, cleaning requirements. Tenants know exactly what's expected.
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Legal protection
Written documentation proves you gave proper notice. Courts need evidence. This is your evidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between termination and eviction?
Termination ends a tenancy (at lease end or by agreement). Eviction is a court process to remove a tenant who won't leave. Termination comes first. Eviction is the enforcement.
Can I terminate a lease early?
Only for cause (lease violations, non-payment) or if both parties agree. You cannot terminate a fixed-term lease just because you want to.
How much notice do I need to give?
Check your lease first. Many require 30-60 days notice even at lease end. State law may also require minimum notice. Give whichever is longer.
What if the tenant refuses to leave?
You must file for eviction through the court. You cannot change locks, shut off utilities, or remove their belongings. That's illegal in every state.
Do I need a reason to terminate at lease end?
In most areas, no. The lease is simply ending. In rent-controlled areas with just cause requirements, you may need a valid reason even at lease end.
Should I offer cash for keys instead?
Sometimes. If you want the tenant out quickly and cleanly, paying them to leave voluntarily can be faster and cheaper than eviction. Get the agreement in writing.
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