Approximately 8.6 million people rent property in the UK.
And the average rental period is 20 months (approximately 1.7 years).
Whatever a tenant’s reasons for leaving are, it’s important to follow best practices.
One of these is notifying landlords when you’re leaving.
Can I leave my rental property in the middle of a contract period?
It depends. Your rental contract determines the specific terms and conditions you must abide by.
There are two types of rental contracts.
Fixed-term tenancy
A fixed-term tenancy (also known as an assured shorthold tenancy (AST)) contract runs for a set term, which is agreed upon with your landlord before you move in.
A standard fixed-term tenancy is usually for six months to one year.
You must check your contract for a break clause to leave during the fixed-term tenancy period.
This clause outlines under what conditions you can end your tenancy early if it all.
There may be other conditions, too. Such as being current with all rental payments and leaving the property in good condition.
If your contract doesn’t have a break clause, you won’t be able to leave mid-way through your agreement term.
Break clause example
If you have a 12-month contract, there might be (for example) a break clause written in for six months.
This doesn’t mean you can move out at six months without telling your landlord.
It means you can move out halfway through your agreement if certain conditions are met.
The break clause will specify how long in advance you’ll need to notify your landlord to enact that clause.
You might need to provide written notice two or three months before you reach month six.
Periodic tenancy
A periodic tenancy runs for a shorter, rolling period. That could be week to week or month to month.
You can move out anytime but must give the agreed notice term.
Typically, this period will be the same length as your rolling tenancy period.
So, if you have a one-month rolling contract, you’ll probably need to give one month’s notice.
You must hand in notice before you move out. Otherwise, you could be forced to pay rent. Or even be taken to court.
Is your landlord abiding by the tenancy contract?
If your landlord has broken terms in the contract, you could be within your rights to leave without a notice period.
For example, if:
- Your right to quiet enjoyment is being violated
- Your rent has been increased by an unreasonable amount
- The landlord is not fixing problems with the property.
Of course, if you do this, you must keep evidence of their violation and be willing to hire a solicitor.
It works both ways
You should also be aware that landlords should themselves give adequate notice for tenants to move out.
This might come about because a tenant has broken contrast terms (for example, is a problem tenant). Or if they want to sell their rental property.
They cannot simply evict tenants for no reason.
How long must I notify my landlord that I’m leaving?
The notice period will be in your contract. You must adhere to this.
So, before you sign the contract on day one, make sure to check this.
Do I need to give my landlord a reason for moving out?
No. You don’t need to give a reason for moving out.
But, if you are negotiating to leave early, you might need to explain why.
Should I ask my landlord for a reference?
When renting a new property, your new landlord often expects a reference. So, it’s worth asking for one.
Even if you aren’t sure what your plans are, it’s better to have a reference than not.
Your landlord isn’t obligated to provide a reference. But if you have been a good tenant – and they are a good landlord – they’re often happy to do so.
Can my landlord stop me from leaving?
If you give notice to your landlord by the terms of your tenancy agreement, they can’t stop you.
However, if you haven’t met the notice period requirements and still wish to move out, you must continue paying rent and associated bills.
How do I give notice that I’m leaving?
Your tenancy agreement should state this. But usually, you need to give a written notice.
This should outline the date you intend to leave the property.
And it must be sent by recorded delivery to your landlord so you have proof that it was received.
