Signing a lease is a commitment not easy to break

When tenants sign a lease, rarely do they anticipate vacating current accommodation before the end date, yet things can change and they may want to respectfully bow out of a lease or end their current one on good terms without legal complications.

Signing a Lease Is a Two-Way Street

Before signing a lease, it is important that a tenant knows what they will be held accountable for; this is a two-way street. To avoid losing one’s deposit, a tenant should be aware of the condition of the apartment before moving in. If repairs are needed, request these upfront. Take pictures of the empty apartment before moving in as evidence in case your landlord disputes any wear and tear. When vacating current accommodation, it is important that the tenant leaves the space clean and repairs any damages they have caused.

When Vacating Current Accommodation Early

When signing a lease, it is important to know the terms and what one’s options are. Oftentimes, tenants may sign onto an apartment only to find another one that suits their needs better – they then need to explore options for vacating current accommodation. It is best to put one’s decision in writing. A landlord may opt to not respect a tenant’s decision, but written documentation will help a tenant defend themselves in court if a landlord decides to sue. Deposits are intended to cover damages, not rent, so discuss financial options with one’s landlord and maybe even facilitate a renter replacement.

Signing a lease is not only subject to the law but also to the good faith of both parties. If vacating current accommodation becomes a sticky situation, it’s best to consult a lawyer. Most landlords will meet tenants halfway if options are available. Also, if a tenant anticipates that they may leave sooner than expected before moving in, they should discuss this upfront. It will avoid unwanted entanglements in the future.