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Best way to write a lease termination letter?

rentinglandlordmoving out
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Mila_Styl
Joined:
16.08.2021
Posts: 2262
Topic Starter
10.01.2025 22:09
I am planning to move out once my current lease expires next month, but I am not sure exactly how to word the formal notice to my landlord. I have a good relationship with them and want to keep things professional without sounding too blunt. Should I include my forwarding address in the letter, or is that something I should handle later? If anyone has a template or some tips on what to definitely include to ensure I get my security deposit back, that would be greatly appreciated.
18 replies in this topic
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MrNobody
Joined:
08.01.2021
Posts: 85
03.02.2025 20:28
Keep it short and sweet. Just state the date you're moving out and reference the lease agreement clause regarding notice periods.
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uncle_joe
Joined:
12.12.2024
Posts: 2302
27.02.2025 07:09
In reply to a previous post
Definitely include your forwarding address now. It makes it easier for them to mail your deposit check once they've inspected the place.
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cris_r
Joined:
07.03.2020
Posts: 1103
07.03.2025 22:30
I always send it via certified mail so there is a paper trail. You never know if a landlord might claim they 'never received' the notice.
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Stacy_B
Joined:
25.09.2023
Posts: 2070
15.03.2025 18:32
In reply to a previous post
That's a great tip. Certified mail has saved me from a headache before when a property manager tried to charge me an extra month of rent.
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monica_p
Joined:
16.02.2020
Posts: 2159
07.04.2025 07:42
Check your lease first! Some landlords require 60 days notice instead of the standard 30, and they will absolutely penalize you if you miss that window.
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regular_user
Joined:
10.04.2021
Posts: 2247
14.04.2025 00:37
In reply to a previous post
Exactly. Don't assume 30 days is the universal standard. Read the fine print of your contract before you draft anything.
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uncle_joe
Joined:
28.06.2020
Posts: 506
20.04.2025 07:02
In reply to a previous post
Does anyone have a good template they've used successfully? I'm in the same boat as the OP.
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cris_r
Joined:
18.02.2024
Posts: 727
22.06.2025 14:57
In reply to a previous post
I used a simple template from a legal site last year. Just search for 'notice to vacate template' and you'll find plenty of free ones that work perfectly.
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Profit_Maker
Joined:
04.06.2022
Posts: 914
20.07.2025 20:47
In reply to a previous post
Keep the tone professional but warm since you have a good relationship. Maybe add a sentence thanking them for being a great landlord.
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Oli_L
Joined:
29.07.2021
Posts: 1982
25.07.2025 22:14
In reply to a previous post
I'm with you on that. A little kindness goes a long way, especially when you're waiting for that security deposit to hit your bank account.
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regular_user
Joined:
14.09.2021
Posts: 1131
28.09.2025 00:46
Whatever you do, make sure you take photos of the apartment after you move your stuff out but before you hand over the keys.
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SimpleMan
Joined:
01.12.2024
Posts: 1612
01.12.2025 18:30
In reply to a previous post
Yes! This is the most important part for getting your deposit back. Document everything to avoid bogus cleaning fees.
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Iggy_R
Joined:
09.05.2022
Posts: 1230
07.12.2025 03:25
Is it better to email or print a hard copy? I feel like email is more common these days.
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Fari_P
Joined:
23.04.2022
Posts: 232
18.12.2025 22:46
In reply to a previous post
I'd suggest doing both. Send an email for the timestamp, but hand over a signed physical copy too if you can.
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Oscar_Z
Joined:
17.11.2024
Posts: 308
21.02.2026 16:56
Just be direct. Landlords appreciate clear communication more than flowery language.
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Stacy_B
Joined:
21.12.2023
Posts: 1906
15.03.2026 12:51
In reply to a previous post
I wouldn't worry about sounding 'blunt.' It's a business transaction, not a social call. Just state the facts.
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GrayMouse
Joined:
12.09.2023
Posts: 61
22.03.2026 21:05
Don't forget to ask for a move-out inspection. If you do it together, you can fix any small issues on the spot before they deduct from your deposit.
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Roman_88
Joined:
07.07.2024
Posts: 785
29.03.2026 23:13
In reply to a previous post
That's solid advice. I requested a walkthrough last time and it definitely helped me get the full amount back.

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