How to write a lease termination letter (free template, by state)

The three reasons leases end

A lease can end three ways: the term expires, both parties agree to end early (mutual termination), or one party invokes a clause permitting unilateral termination (military deployment, habitability breach, lease cancellation rider). The notice rules differ for each.

Notice periods by state (general rules)

Month-to-month tenancies: 30 days in most states; 60 days in California for tenancies over a year and in some other states.

Fixed-term ending: technically you do not need notice (the lease just expires), but most landlords expect at least 30 days as a courtesy.

Mid-lease termination for a habitability breach: varies widely. Most states require a written notice + a cure period (typically 7-14 days) before you can leave.

What every termination letter needs

1. Date.

2. Tenant name and current address.

3. Landlord name and address.

4. The exact termination date (and the lease provision or state law that permits it).

5. Forwarding address for the security-deposit return.

6. Optional: request for a pre-move-out inspection (required in California, recommended elsewhere).

After you send it

Keep proof of delivery (certified mail return receipt or email confirmation). Document the unit's condition with timestamped photos. Provide the forwarding address - most states give the landlord 14-30 days to return the deposit, and the clock only runs once they have your address.