Moving out of a rental can be exciting, particularly if you’re moving to a better place. However, it’s important to remember that giving notice to the landlord is one of the most significant things to do before moving.
Make sure you provide sufficient notice or you might lose your security deposit or leave yourself open to expensive legal ramifications if the property management sues you.
The last thing you want is to leave in a way that results in bad referrals from the property owner in the future. Consider these tips if you want to move out.
Understand Your Lease
You should recognize what’s in your lease and examine what it states. You’ll find a section delineating how to give notice, the required period, and the penalties related to leaving early. In some instances, you might owe the security deposit, a month’s rent or more.
To be on the safe side, you must give more than the required minimum notice though it isn’t necessary. This shows good faith and courtesy, which will prove useful in the future. Bear in mind that the notice must typically coincide with the rental period, which works in 30-day cycles and normally starts on the month’s first day.
In the event that you moved in on the 1st, you’ll have to issue notice before the 1st before you move out. Remember, the amount of notice you should provide is dependent on your lease’s term. Generally, the longer the term, the more notice you should give.
-
Yearly Leases
If you’ve signed a yearly lease, it means you’ve agreed to live in the rental for the entire duration. However, when the lease is almost over, you can move out rightfully. Generally, you should issue at least 30 days’ notice before the date of termination. For instance, if the lease ends on December 31, you must inform the landlord of your intention to move out by December 1.
-
Monthly agreements
For these agreements, it’s usually accepted that you must inform the landlord at least 30 days before your intention to move.
-
Weekly agreements
If you’ve signed a weekly agreement to rent an apartment, you generally need to alert the landlord at least 7 days before the move date.
Examine the State’s Laws
It’s important you examine the landlord-tenant laws in your state as well as the termination or renewal clause in the lease you’ve signed with the landlord.
Inform the Leasing Office or Landlord
Informing the property owner or the leasing office gives them a head’s up of your intention to move while providing a great way of getting any questions regarding your lease. You’ll also be in a position to obtain clarification on anything that needs addressing.
State your intentions in writing
A written letter and follow-up call is usually best, but examine your lease for details. The letter will have to comprise your unit number and address, the landlord or management company’s name, the letter’s date, your intention to move, and the date you plan to move. You should also state a request for identifying your deposit’s status.
Obtain Proof of Notice Delivery
Maintain a copy of your letter and obtain delivery confirmation or send certified mail. You could deliver it personally as well. If you do this, obtain receipt confirmation. Another option is email; ensure you request a confirmation reply indicating they read and received it.
In case you attach the letter to your email, you should probably send a second email to inform management that you’ve sent a letter indicating your intent to move out.
Final Thoughts
If you’re renting an apartment and you wish to move out, it’s imperative you issue the proper notice to avoid paying extra rent and to obtain your security deposit refund.
For more information on how to give notice when moving out, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a message.
