Knowledge Builders

what does terminating a lease mean

by Cassandra Grimes Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

What does it mean to terminate a lease? A termination is the landlord ending the rental agreement and asking the tenant to vacate the rental unit. A tenant can have their tenancy terminated and move out without being evicted.

A lease termination letter provides notice that a lease arrangement is expiring or is about to expire. This can happen for many reasons, such as: The tenant violated terms of the lease arrangement (such as having too many people living in the place) Failure to pay rent.Jun 25, 2018

Full Answer

How do you write a letter to terminate a lease?

Your lease termination letter should include:

  • Your name
  • Name of tenants
  • Today’s date
  • The reason for termination
  • The end of lease date
  • Move-out process instructions
  • Copy of the move-out checklist
  • A request for tenant’s new address
  • A request for date and time of walk-through inspection

How do you terminate a lease?

Method 1 Method 1 of 3: Negotiating Early Termination Download Article

  1. Send a letter to your landlord. If you need to end your lease early and want to negotiate early termination with your landlord, send him or her a letter ...
  2. Arrange a private meeting. Try to meet with your landlord in a neutral location that has a minimum of distractions so the two of you can talk without interruption. ...
  3. Discuss terminating your lease. ...

More items...

When a landlord breaks a lease agreement?

You have to be given ample time in which to find a new apartment. There is more than one way for a landlord to break the terms within a lease agreement. He or she may knowingly violate a lease agreement. For instance, courts will recognize that the landlord acted illegally if he or she frequently enters your apartment without your permission.

How to get out of a lease?

  • Provide the landlord with written notice of their need to terminate the lease agreement.
  • This notice must usually be made at least 30 days before the desired date of termination.
  • The tenant should also provide proof, such as a copy of the change of station orders or military deployment. 14 

image

Can a landlord terminate a lease early in North Carolina?

A landlord can't force you to move out before the lease ends, unless you fail to pay the rent or violate another significant term, such as repeatedly throwing large and noisy parties. In these cases, landlords in North Carolina must follow specific procedures to end the tenancy.

Can a landlord break a lease in Alabama?

(b) If rent is unpaid when due, the landlord may deliver a written notice to terminate the lease to the tenant specifying the amount of rent and any late fees owed to remedy the breach and that the rental agreement will terminate upon a date not less than seven days after receipt of the notice.

What a landlord Cannot do?

Landlords cannot enter tenanted properties without giving proper notice. Landlords cannot arbitrarily end someone's tenancy before the lease expires. Arbitrary, mid-lease rent increases are not permitted unless specified in certain circumstances in the lease or by the municipality.

Can a landlord terminate a lease early?

If the lease contains a forfeiture clause, the landlord is permitted to cancel the lease on the first occasion when the tenant fails to pay rent. However, if the landlord regularly accepts late payment, they cannot then use this as a reason for cancellation, because they have given their tacit approval in the past.

How much time does a landlord have to give a tenant to move out?

It normally ranges from 20 to 30 days. At times the lease agreement may provide for longer periods of more than 30 days. The Consumer Protection Act (CPA), which regulates residential lease agreements states that such a notice period can not be less than 20 working days.

What are my rights as a renter in Alabama?

Tenants have the right to suitable housing and the right to pursue some forms of alternative action. Alabama landlords have the right to collect rent in a timely manner and the right to pursue formal eviction in the case of a lease violation. Note: These rights exist regardless of a rental agreement stating otherwise.

Can a landlord evict you without a court order?

The law does not permit arbitrary evictions. This means that before you are evicted there must be a court order. A court must consider how the eviction will affect the people who will be evicted and evictions cannot be done without good reasons.

Who can I report my landlord to in Alabama?

HUD handles complaints about housing discrimination, bad landlords in federal housing and many other issues. For additional local resources, you can also contact a housing counseling agency.

What does lease termination mean?

Lease Termination means the return of an Eligible Vehicle by an Eligible Lessee to Settling Defendants, under terms and in accordance with a process to be established by Settling Defendants consistent with this Appendix A.

What is the term for damages in a lease termination?

Landlord shall pay the Annual Damage Amount to Tenant quarterly, in equal installments, for each calendar year (or portion thereof) during the shortest of the following periods, as applicable: (a) a five (5) year period commencing on the termination of the applicable Third Party Lease, (b) the period of the then remaining Term of this Restated Lease, and (c) the period of the then remaining term of the terminated Third Party Lease. As used herein, the term "Annual Damage Amount " means a sum equal to the product of (a) the volume of gas sales in gallons at the Property with respect to which a Third Party Lease has been terminated in the twelve (12) full calendar months immediately prior to the termination of such Third Party Lease, times (b) ten cents ($.10), less an equitable amount attributable to Tenant's cost of doing business at such Property ( including, without limitation, the Rent allocable to such Property, the determination of which shall be made in accordance with the principles set forth in the Fixed Rent Adjustment Procedures) during such period.

When did HPT GL lease end?

Lease Termination. With respect to Site 2, all of the lease documents pertaining to that certain Lease Agreement, dated as of December 1, 1988, between HPT GL Properties LLC, as landlord, and HPT TA Properties LLC, as tenant, successor by assignments from Christ T. Panos and Roadway Motor Plazas, Inc ., respectively (as amended and assigned, the “Ground Lease”) have been provided to Title Insurer and the Ground Lease has terminated and is no longer in effect as of June 5, 2015 by virtue of the merger of HPT GL Properties LLC into HPT TA Properties LLC. Limitation of Trust Liability: HPT TA PROPERTIES LLC, a Maryland limited liability company By: John G. Murray President HPT TA PROPERTIES TRUST, a Maryland real estate investment trust By: John G. Murray President

What does "remove advertising" mean?

Remove Advertising. Lease Termination means any Termination of the Lease pursuant to the terms of the Lease controlling termination upon the occurrence of an event of default under the Service Contract. Sample 1.

What Is a Lease Termination?

A lease termination letter is an official notice used to end a lease agreement early or to confirm that an expiring lease term will not be renewed.

What happens if a lease is terminated?

If your landlord ends your lease early without cause, you can sue the landlord for costs associated with your housing search like realtor fees and temporary housing until you find another permanent place to live.

Where Can You Get a Lease Termination Letter?

You can download our free lease termination letter template or use our document builder to create your lease termination letter step-by-step.

What happens if you send a letter to your landlord about moving out?

If you’re a tenant, sending an early lease termination letter to your landlord could minimize penalties or rent you’d have to pay for moving out early.

What is a good letter to send for an early termination of a lease?

Using a clear written letter that includes relevant details about the original lease is especially important when you’re sending an early lease termination letter. Download our free lease termination letter template to make sure you include all necessary information.

How much does it cost to terminate a lease?

A typical lease termination fee depends on the lease and the laws in your area, but it’s usually one or two months’ rent. As a tenant, if the lease doesn’t specify a fee and your landlord can’t find a replacement tenant after a good faith attempt, then you’ll likely be responsible for the rent owed for the rest of the lease term.

How long do you have to give notice to leave property?

In most cases, your landlord is required to send you written advance notice (usually 1-2 months in advance) before you have to leave the premises.

What is a tenant termination of lease?

Tenant Termination of Lease. Since a lease is a contract, tenants are bound to the length of the lease. This means that they are responsible for paying rent during the lease period. Exceptions to this rule exist, particularly if the landlord breaks or violates the lease. Some states provide explicit reasons for tenants to break their leases, ...

What is a lease agreement?

A lease is a contract that binds two or more parties to the terms of the agreement. Sometimes, after signing a rental agreement or lease, a tenant may need to vacate the rental unit early for a variety of reasons. Likewise, the landlord may terminate the lease under certain circumstances.

What is the duty of a landlord to mitigate damages?

Landlord’s Duty to Mitigate Damages. The landlord has a duty to mitigate, or to use reasonable efforts to re-rent the rental unit after a tenant has broken the lease. Generally, reasonable efforts are what a reasonable person would do under similar circumstances.

Why do landlords break leases?

If a landlord is violating terms of the lease, especially health and safety codes, the tenant may be able to move out without giving notice, or giving less notice than typically required.

What is an eviction?

An eviction is a court-ordered removal of the tenant. The landlord typically files a complaint with the court, the tenant is provided time to answer, and if the landlord prevails in court, it repossesses the property. Last updated November 2018. Landlord Tenant Law Contents. Landlord Tenant Law.

Can a landlord terminate a lease?

Landlord Termination of Lease. A landlord may legally terminate a lease if the tenant is in violation of the terms of the lease or has broken the law. The violation by the tenant must be significant, such as late rent, or having a dog despite a prohibition against pets in the premises. Violations of the law, such as selling drugs on the premises, ...

Can a landlord sue a tenant for damages?

However, if the tenant breaks a lease without a legally protected reason, the landlord may sue for damages.

4 attorney answers

When you wrote 'give written notice' did you mean the date when the notice was given or the date indicated in the written notice as being the last day (which would make more sense as a question). I you are looking to start counting the 30 day ticker for SD purposes, repost the question with facts about when notice was given, what kind of notice (written, 15 day, 30, 60) what kind of lease, and when did you vacate, when did you agree to vacate, when did....

Matthew R Schutz

I would echo Rixon's answer. Having more facts about the specifics of your case would yield a more accurate answer. Many factors can be considered in defining a lease termination: lease language, notice requirements, and actions of the parties, to name but a few. Contact an attorney to discuss the specific facts of your case.

Adam Lefkowitz

Termination of a lease usually means the date the lease ends. This could also mean the day you vacate the premises.

How to terminate a lease?

When terminating a lease or rental agreement, the landlord must send the tenant a notice of termination. Although the names of the notices may vary in each state, termination notices usually order the tenant to do one of the following: 1 Pay Rent or Quit - The tenant must pay rent within a set time (usually three to five days) or vacate the rental unit. 2 Cure or Quit - The tenant must correct a violation of the lease or rental agreement within a certain time. 3 Unconditional Quit - The tenant must vacate the premises without the opportunity to cure the violation or pay the rent.

How to end a rental agreement?

The best way to answer any questions you may have about terminating a lease or rental agreement is to contact a local landlord-tenant attorney who can help clarify your rights and guide you through the process.

What is eviction in a rental?

Eviction is the court-ordered physical removal of the tenant and his or her property through the assistance of a law enforcement officer. Terminating a lease may require the landlord to file an eviction lawsuit, or an unlawful detainer action, if the tenant remains in the rental after receiving a termination notice.

What is an unconditional quit?

Unconditional Quit - The tenant must vacate the premises without the opportunity to cure the violation or pay the rent. If the tenant continues to remain in the rental unit after receiving a termination notice, the landlord may file an eviction lawsuit.

What happens when a landlord fails to pay rent?

Fails to pay rent; Violates a clause in the lease or rental agreement; Violates a responsibility imposed by law. When terminating a lease or rental agreement, the landlord must send the tenant a notice of termination. Although the names of the notices may vary in each state, termination notices usually order the tenant to do one of the following:

What is an itemized statement for a landlord?

If the landlord used the deposit for unpaid rent, to make repairs, or for cleaning, an itemized statement with a list of deductions, plus the remaining security deposit and interest if required, must be sent to the tenant.

What happens if a tenant refuses to leave after eviction?

If the tenant refuses to leave after receiving the notice of eviction, a law enforcement officer may remove the tenant.

What is the first thing to consider when terminating a lease?

The first thing to consider is the termination conditions. These depend on the requirements of the supplier and must be studied from the time of signing the contract, not when you opt for the lease.

What to know before signing a lease?

Before signing a lease, you must pay close attention to the terms and conditions. Once you have made sure that you can support the monthly payment that the contract entails, you must be careful not to be late with the installments and enjoy the chosen car.

Does a lease have a mileage limit?

If this varies, there is the possibility to either recalculate the monthly rate during the contract period or to settle the extra mileage or non-mileage at the end of the contract.

Can you terminate a car lease?

A car lease can be terminated at any time. However, the time you choose to do this will also determine the costs you have to pay, as factors such as car wear or the remaining contractual period will be taken into account.

How much rent do you lose if you break a lease?

Tip: If you have broken your lease, and you live in a state that requires your landlord to mitigate damages, you should still plan on losing at least one month’s rent. Even if your state law requires the landlord to make a reasonable effort to rerent, in civil court it is common for a judge to award landlords with at least one month’s rent (no matter how quickly the unit is rented).

What happens if a landlord violates a lease agreement?

If a landlord violates the terms of the lease agreement, it may be enough justification to break the lease and relieve the tenant from their own obligations (i.e. illegally raising the rent during the fixed period).

What happens if a tenant is not properly notified?

If those standards are not met, proper notice is given by the tenant and the repairs/fixes are still not made within the allowable time period, a tenant would be considered “constructively evicted”. As a result, the obligations of the tenant under the lease are no longer required, given that the landlord has not met their own responsibilities under the landlord-tenant law.

How often can a landlord increase rent?

Landlords must give proper notice, such as 30 to 60 days before a lease renewal and are not allowed to increase the rent by more than is legally allowed in their state.

How long does it take to change locks on a rental property?

If you request the landlord to change your locks and they fail to do so within 24 hours of your request, you may then change the locks yourself. If the restrained person is also a tenant of the unit, that person is still responsible for upholding their end of the lease.

How long does a lease agreement have to be valid?

For a written lease agreement with a fixed period of greater than 1 year to be valid, it needs to have a clear description of the leased property. Illegal units. The definition of what constitutes an illegal rental unit can vary by location and isn’t always entirely clear.

What is the violation of a tenant's privacy?

Landlord Harassment / Privacy Violation. Depending on the state, if the action is serious enough, harassment by a landlord or their violation of a tenant’s privacy may be enough justification for breaking a lease. Domestic Violence.

What happens if you terminate a lease?

A lease termination letter provides notice that a lease arrangement is expiring or is about to expire. This can happen for many reasons, such as: 1 The tenant violated terms of the lease arrangement (such as having too many people living in the place) 2 Failure to pay rent 3 New zoning codes or ordinances 4 Situations have caused the residence to be unlivable

What Should a Lease Termination Letter Address?

A lease termination letter, or leae termination notice, should always be in writing so that there is a record of the warning and notice. The letter should contain basic information such as the address being referred to, the names of the tenants and other affected parties, and the name and contact information of the landlord. It should also state information like:

What does a termination letter mean?

A lease termination letter provides notice that a lease arrangement is expiring or is about to expire. This can happen for many reasons, such as: The tenant violated terms of the lease arrangement (such as having too many people living in the place) Procedures for termination of a lease often depend on the type of tenancy involved.

Can a tenant take steps to prevent a termination?

Whether or not the tenant can take steps to prevent the termination (such as paying rent) For tenants who need to break a lease arrangement, they can also issue a notice of termination. However, they in all circumstances, the parties (whether landlord or tenant) need to make sure that they aren’t violating any laws or terms in a previous contract.

Should I Hire a Lawyer for Help with a Lease Termination Letter?

If you need help with a lease termination letter, you may need the advice and guidance of landlord tenant lawyer. A qualified lawyer in your area can explain the landlord-tenant laws in your area, which may be different in every state. Your attorney can assist you with important legal documents and letters, and can provide legal representation during a lawsuit.

image

1.Termination of a Lease or Rental Agreement | Zillow …

Url:https://www.zillow.com/rental-manager/resources/lease-terminations/

27 hours ago Lease Termination means any event, which by voluntary or involuntary act or by operation of law, causes the Lease to be terminated, cancelled, rejected in bankruptcy, insolvency, …

2.Lease Termination Definition | Law Insider

Url:https://www.lawinsider.com/dictionary/lease-termination

17 hours ago  · A lease termination is an official notice to end a lease agreement early or confirm that a landlord or tenant will not renew a current lease. If you are a landlord and …

3.What's a Lease Termination? | LegalTemplates

Url:https://legaltemplates.net/resources/real-estate/what-is-a-lease-termination/

20 hours ago Terminating a Lease of Rental Property. A lease is a contract that binds two or more parties to the terms of the agreement. Sometimes, after signing a rental agreement or lease, a tenant …

4.Terminating a Lease of Rental Property | Justia

Url:https://www.justia.com/real-estate/landlord-tenant/information-for-tenants/terminating-a-lease/

27 hours ago  · Termination of a lease usually means the date the lease ends. This could also mean the day you vacate the premises.

5.What exactly does termination of lease mean? - Legal …

Url:https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/what-exactly-does-termination-of-lease-mean--1047791.html

20 hours ago  · In general, most states allow a landlord to terminate a lease or rental agreement if the tenant: Fails to pay rent; Violates a clause in the lease or rental agreement; Violates a …

6.Terminating a Lease or Rental Agreement: FAQs - FindLaw

Url:https://www.findlaw.com/realestate/landlord-tenant-law/terminating-a-lease-or-rental-agreement-faqs.html

23 hours ago Terminate the lease if you do not need any other loans or home mortgage in the near future, and you truly are unable to continue your lease payments and are unable to negotiate with the loan …

7.Lease Termination | Bills.com

Url:https://www.bills.com/learn/personal-finance/lease-termination

28 hours ago  · Questions and answers about terminating a car lease. 1. After how long can a car lease be terminated? A car lease can be terminated at any time. However, the time you …

8.Termination of a vehicle leasing contract: stages

Url:https://www.businesslease.ro/en/blog/termination-of-a-auto-leasing-contract-stages/

10 hours ago Federal law allows active servicemembers to terminate lease if relocating due to deployment or permanent change of station. Unit is Uninhabitable: Depending on the state, if the landlord is …

9.Breaking a Lease [2022]: State Laws on Early Termination

Url:https://ipropertymanagement.com/laws/breaking-a-lease

36 hours ago  · A lease termination letter provides notice that a lease arrangement is expiring or is about to expire. This can happen for many reasons, such as: The tenant violated terms of …

10.What Is a Lease Termination Letter? | LegalMatch

Url:https://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/what-is-a-lease-termination-letter.html

4 hours ago

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9