A formal written notice landlords use to end a tenancy, specifying the vacate date, reason for termination, and move-out requirements.
Use this notice when you intend to end a tenancy at the end of a lease term, when a tenant has violated the lease, or when you have another lawful reason for termination such as owner move-in or property sale. This is distinct from an eviction notice — it is used when the process is relatively amicable or at the end of a fixed term. For lease violations, you may also need a Cure or Quit notice first.
Legal Note: Lease termination laws vary significantly by state and city. Many jurisdictions require landlords to provide a specific reason ('just cause') to terminate a tenancy, especially in areas with strong tenant protections. Required notice periods range from 30 to 90 days depending on the state, length of tenancy, and reason for termination. Always consult your state's landlord-tenant law before serving this notice.
[Your Name / Property Management Company] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Date] [Tenant Full Name] [Rental Property Address] [City, State, ZIP] Re: Notice of Lease Termination Dear [Tenant Name], This letter serves as formal written notice that your tenancy at the property located at [Rental Property Address], Unit [#], will be terminated effective [Termination Date]. You are hereby required to vacate the premises and return possession of the property to the landlord no later than [Vacate-By Date and Time, e.g., 5:00 PM on July 31, 2025]. ───────────────────────────────────────── REASON FOR TERMINATION (if applicable) ───────────────────────────────────────── ☐ End of fixed-term lease (no renewal) ☐ Nonpayment of rent ☐ Violation of lease terms — Specifically: ___________________________ ☐ Landlord's intent to occupy / sell the property ☐ Other: ___________________________ ───────────────────────────────────────── MOVE-OUT INSTRUCTIONS ───────────────────────────────────────── By the vacate date, please ensure the following: • All personal belongings and furniture are removed. • The unit is returned in clean condition, comparable to move-in condition, subject to normal wear and tear. • All keys, garage door openers, parking passes, and access cards are returned to [location/address]. • Your forwarding address is provided so that your security deposit can be returned. A move-out inspection will be scheduled. You will be notified of the exact date and time in advance. ───────────────────────────────────────── SECURITY DEPOSIT ───────────────────────────────────────── Your security deposit of $[Deposit Amount] is currently on file. Per [State] law, your deposit will be returned (less any lawful deductions) within [number] days of your move-out date, along with an itemized statement of any deductions. ───────────────────────────────────────── REMAINING RENT OBLIGATIONS ───────────────────────────────────────── Rent continues to be due and payable through the termination date. Any outstanding balance owed must be paid prior to vacating. If you have questions about this notice, please contact us at: [Phone Number] / [Email Address] Sincerely, ___________________________ [Your Printed Name] [Your Title / Company Name] [Phone Number] [Email Address] --- Delivery Method: ☐ Personal Service ☐ Certified Mail ☐ Posted on Door Date Delivered: ___________________________
Notice requirements vary by state and the type of tenancy. For month-to-month tenancies, most states require 30–60 days notice. Some states require more for longer tenancies (e.g., 90 days for tenants who have lived there over a year). For fixed-term leases, you typically don't need to give notice — the lease simply ends on the specified date.
A termination notice informs the tenant that their tenancy will end on a specific date. An eviction notice (often called a Pay or Quit or Cure or Quit) is used when the tenant has violated the lease and you want them to remedy the issue or leave. If the tenant doesn't leave after a termination notice, you must still go through the formal eviction court process.
Generally only for specific cause — such as nonpayment of rent, lease violations, illegal activity, or property damage. Terminating without cause mid-lease can expose you to liability for breach of contract. Check your state's laws and your lease terms carefully.
Most states require written notice delivered in person or via certified mail. Some allow posting on the door with a mailed copy. Always document how and when the notice was delivered — keep a signed acknowledgment or certified mail receipt.
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