When you leave a rented apartment or home, your landlord’s goal is to fill it with a new tenant ASAP. That’s why you’re required to give them a heads-up – or a notice of intent to vacate – in plenty of time. The first thing you should do if you’ve decided to move out is check the lease agreement that you signed when you moved in. Your landlord should have detailed exactly when you need to provide a notice of intent to vacate, and how far in advance of your move-out date they need to have received it. Some landlords only require a notice when the lease is broken; others need one regardless of the situation. Some landlords need a reason; others just need the facts. Review your lease to see if a notice of intent to vacate is required in your situation, and then learn how to write one!
First Things First: The Heading
First, list your full name and apartment address. Below that, write the landlord or property manager’s name and address. if you’re unsure who to send this to, check your lease agreement. The full address should also be on the lease. Add the date and then write the purpose of the letter: Notice of Intent to Vacate.
Now For the Juicy Details: The Body Content
Your lease should tell you exactly which details you need to provide to your landlord. Basically, you should provide a recap of your lease agreement. Tell them which unit you live in, who your roommates are (if you have any), when your lease ends, and when you intend on moving out. If you are renting a fully furnished apartment, there may be other relevant information about your unit to include. If you are breaking a lease and your landlord or property manager requires a reason, let them know why you’re leaving. If it’s because of a problem in your unit, explain the issue as thoroughly as possible.
Wrap It Up: Writing the Closing
Wrap up your letter. Depending on your lease agreement, you may need to schedule a time for your landlord to perform a walk-through and make sure everything is in good condition. If you paid a security deposit, you should inquire when that will be returned (assuming everything is in good condition). Finally, provide them with a forwarding address for any mail that arrives for you and in case the landlord needs to follow up with you for any reason.
Whether your lease is ending or you’re going to break your lease, it’s crucial that you follow the applicable procedure in your lease so you don’t encounter any problems. This document will be written proof that you’ve followed the appropriate protocol. Most importantly, you need to find a new apartment! After all, if you’re writing a notice of intent to vacate, you’re probably on the hunt. If you haven’t found your next home sweet home, turn to ApartmentSearch.com. Find your next place on ApartmentSearch.com and you could receive up to $200 in rewards!
