Breaking a House Lease Agreement: Dos and Don`ts
When you initially signed a lease agreement, you may have thought that you would be living at your rented house for the entire term of the lease. But as life often does, circumstances may arise that require you to break the lease agreement and vacate the rental property before the lease term ends. This could be due to job relocation, financial difficulties, family emergencies, or other unforeseen events.
If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few things you need to know before making any hasty decisions. Breaking a lease agreement can have legal and financial consequences, so it’s important to handle the situation carefully and professionally.
Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when breaking a house lease agreement:
Do know your lease terms and obligations.
Before you take any action, it’s crucial to read the lease agreement thoroughly and understand your obligations as a tenant. Pay attention to clauses related to early termination, subletting, security deposit, and notice period. You may also want to consult with a lawyer or a housing authority to understand the legal implications of breaking the lease agreement.
Do communicate with your landlord.
Once you have decided to break the lease agreement, you should inform your landlord as soon as possible. Be honest and transparent about your reasons for leaving and provide a written notice as required by your lease agreement. You may also want to discuss potential options with your landlord, such as finding a replacement tenant or negotiating a termination agreement.
Do document everything.
To avoid any disputes or misunderstandings later on, it’s important to document all interactions with your landlord and any other relevant parties. Keep a record of all written and verbal communication, including emails, texts, and phone calls. You may also want to take photos of the rental property before you leave to show its condition.
Don’t stop paying rent.
Even if you are planning to leave before the lease term ends, you are still responsible for paying rent until the end of the lease or until a new tenant is found. Failing to do so may result in legal action and damage your credit score. If you are unable to pay rent due to financial difficulties, you may want to discuss payment options with your landlord.
Don’t damage the property.
When leaving the rental property, make sure that you leave it in the same condition as when you first moved in, aside from normal wear and tear. Don’t remove any fixtures or appliances that belong to the landlord, and don’t leave any personal belongings or trash behind. If there are any damages that need to be repaired, inform your landlord and arrange for repairs to be made.
Breaking a house lease agreement can be a stressful and difficult process, but by following these dos and don’ts, you can minimize the potential negative consequences and maintain a good relationship with your landlord. Remember to act professionally and responsibly, and seek legal advice if necessary.