Your Top FAQ Answered: Terminating a Lease Agreement

An eviction differs from a termination of tenancy. A termination occurs when the landlord ends the lease and requests that the renter leave the rented property. Without being evicted, a tenant has the option of ending their lease and leaving. The actual court procedure and lawsuit to have a renter evicted from the property if they don’t depart is called an eviction.

What Occurs if a Renter Violates their Lease?

Generally speaking, a tenant is obligated to stay for the duration of the lease unless the landlord materially violates the terms of the lease, such as by neglecting to perform required repairs or by disobeying a key provision. A few states have regulations that permit tenants to terminate a lease due to medical issues or a career change that necessitates a long-term migration. Tenants who join the military or other relevant government positions are eligible for early lease termination under federal law and many comparable state statutes.

A tenant who breaches a lease without justification is liable for the balance of the rent payable during the length of the agreement. Regardless of the tenant’s reason for leaving, a landlord is required by law in the majority of states to make an effort to find a replacement tenant before collecting the balance of the money due on the lease.

When is it Permissible for a Landlord to Legally End a Lease and End the Tenancy?

If a tenant repeatedly violates the terms of the lease or the law, such as by failing to pay rent on time, keeping a dog despite the lease’s no-pets provision, seriously damaging the property, or engaging in illegal activity on the property or close by, such as selling drugs, the landlord may legally terminate the lease.

A notification informing the tenant that the tenancy has ended must be sent by the landlord first. The specifics of how a landlord must draft and distribute (serve) a termination notice are outlined under state legislation. Depending on what the tenant did incorrectly, the termination notice can indicate that the tenancy is over and warn the renter that they must leave the property immediately or risk legal action for eviction. The notice may also provide the tenant a little period of time to straighten up, such as a few days to pay the rent or find a new place for the dog. Consult the rent laws of your state for more information on terminations related to rent.

What Guidelines Apply to the Repayment of Security Deposits?

As long as they do it properly and for a legitimate reason, landlords are permitted to withdraw money from a tenant’s security deposit. The provision of a documented itemized accounting of deductions for unpaid rent, repairs for damages, and necessary cleaning that go beyond ordinary wear and tear, as well as payment for any overdue deposit amount, is mandated by many states.

States have different dates, but in general, landlords have 14 to 30 days after the tenant leaves — willingly or through an eviction — in which to repay deposits.

What are Valid Reasons for Terminating a Lease and Evicting a Tenant?

Valid reasons for terminating a lease and evicting a tenant can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific terms of the lease agreement. However, here are some common valid reasons for lease termination and eviction:

1. Non-Payment of Rent: If a tenant fails to pay rent, landlords may have grounds for eviction. The specific procedures and notice requirements for evicting a tenant for non-payment of rent can vary, so it’s important to follow the applicable laws and regulations in your area.
2. Violation of Lease Terms: If a tenant violates the terms of the lease agreement, such as by having unauthorized pets, subletting without permission, or causing a nuisance, landlords may have grounds for eviction. In these cases, landlords may need to provide the tenant with a notice to cure or quit, giving them an opportunity to correct the violation before proceeding with eviction.
3. Illegal Activities: If a tenant engages in illegal activities on the rental property, such as drug use or dealing, landlords may have grounds for eviction. In these cases, landlords may need to provide the tenant with a notice to quit, without the option to cure the violation, before proceeding with eviction.
4. End of Lease Term: If a lease has a specific end date and the tenant does not wish to renew the lease, the landlord can choose not to offer a lease renewal and ask the tenant to vacate the premises at the end of the lease term. In these cases, no specific reason for eviction is required, as the lease term is simply expiring.
5. Owner Move-In: In some jurisdictions, landlords may be allowed to terminate a lease and evict a tenant if they or an immediate family member plan to move into the rental property. Landlords may need to provide the tenant with a notice to quit and, in some cases, offer relocation assistance.
6. Substantial Repairs or Renovations: In some cases, landlords may be allowed to terminate a lease and evict a tenant if they need to make substantial repairs or renovations to the rental property that would be impractical to do while the tenant is in occupancy. Landlords may need to provide the tenant with a notice to quit and, in some cases, offer relocation assistance.

It’s important to note that the specific reasons for lease termination and eviction, as well as the procedures and notice requirements, can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the terms of the lease agreement. Landlords should always consult with a legal professional to ensure that they are following the correct procedures and complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

Are there Other Options for Breaking a Lease Agreement?

Yes, there are other options for breaking a lease agreement, depending on the circumstances and the willingness of the landlord to negotiate. Here are some alternative options to consider:

1. Lease Termination Agreement: A lease termination agreement is a mutual agreement between the landlord and the tenant to end the lease before the original term expires. This can be a more amicable solution, as both parties agree to the terms of the lease termination, which may include a fee or other conditions.
2. Subletting or Lease Assignment: If the lease agreement allows for subletting or lease assignments, the tenant may be able to find a new tenant to take over the lease. This can help the tenant avoid penalties for breaking the lease, but it’s important to get the landlord’s approval and follow the proper procedures.
3. Negotiation with the Landlord: In some cases, the tenant may be able to negotiate with the landlord to reach a mutually beneficial solution. This could include finding a new tenant, agreeing to a shorter notice period, or paying a fee in exchange for early lease termination.
4. Legal Justifications: In certain situations, such as if the rental property becomes uninhabitable or the tenant is a victim of domestic violence, there may be legal justifications for breaking the lease. Tenants should consult with a legal professional to understand their rights and options in these cases.

It’s important to note that breaking a lease agreement without the landlord’s consent can have legal and financial consequences, such as being held responsible for the remaining rent or facing damage to your credit. It’s always best to communicate with your landlord, review the lease agreement, and seek legal advice if needed before pursuing any options for breaking a lease.

Learn more from California Lease Termination article.