{"id":369251,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:19","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/sample-letter-to-landlord.html"},"modified":"2026-09-14T09:59:00","modified_gmt":"2026-09-14T14:59:00","slug":"sample-letter-to-landlord","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/sample-letter-to-landlord.html","title":{"rendered":"When Your Lease Ends: Sample Letter to Landlord"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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When Your Lease Ends: Sample Letter to Landlord<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Melissa McCall, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n
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A lease termination letter protects you by creating a clear record of your intent to move out, which helps avoid disputes over notice, rent, or your security deposit. Most states require written notice, and sending a formal letter ensures you meet those deadlines and comply with your lease terms. Using a sample letter can help you communicate your move\u2011out plans professionally and keep your rental history in good standing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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When a lease ends, renters and tenants have a few choices. They can move out, continue renting on a\u00a0month-to-month lease<\/a>, or sign a new lease. The options available to the tenant depend on the terms of the lease agreement and, where necessary, state law.<\/p>\n

Under some state laws, the tenant must give a 30-day or 60-day notice to vacate the rental unit. In other states, tenants who stay in the rental unit after the lease expires automatically shift to a month-to-month tenancy.<\/p>\n

This article explains why and how tenants should give landlords written notice before they move. You’ll also find sample letters you can use to get you started.<\/p>\n

In most situations, ending your lease doesn’t require a lawyer. But there are times when legal help can be a key tool, like if your landlord challenges your move-out date or withholds your security deposit. Legal help is available for landlord-tenant issues like these. Find an attorney near you.<\/a><\/p>\n

Ending a Lease: Written Notice<\/h2>\n

Although many tenants tell their landlords they are leaving at the end of the lease term<\/a>, a lease termination letter offers more protection for the tenant. Tenants not at the end of their lease may also use a lease termination letter. If allowed, tenants considering early termination can send a letter with a proposed lease termination date.<\/p>\n

So, even though the tenant and the landlord know when the rental agreement ends, tenants should give written notice of their intent to vacate the rental property.<\/p>\n

Reasons To Give Notice<\/h3>\n

Here are a few reasons tenants should give written notice before they lease the rental property<\/a>:<\/p>\n