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Free lease renewal letter template (Word)

Reviewed by Clausery editors · · 3 min read

A letter from a landlord to a tenant offering to renew their lease for a new fixed term (often 12 months) or on a month-to-month basis, with any updated terms and rent.

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A lease renewal letter is sent to a tenant toward the end of their fixed-term lease offering to extend the tenancy. It states the new term, any rent change, and any updated rules or clauses.

If the tenant signs and returns the renewal (or a new lease is executed), the tenancy continues under the new terms. If the tenant declines or does not respond by the deadline, the lease typically rolls to month-to-month per local law or ends as written.

What to include#

  • Tenant and property. Tenant name, property address and unit number, current lease dates.
  • New term. Renewal term length (e.g. 12 months) and new start/end dates, or a switch to month-to-month.
  • Rent change. New monthly rent amount, effective date, and the reason (market rate, CPI, property taxes) — some jurisdictions require specific notice and justification.
  • Changes to terms. Any new clauses or updates (pet policy, utilities, late fees, maintenance responsibilities).
  • Response deadline. Date by which the tenant must sign and return or give notice to vacate.

How to fill it in#

  1. Step 1: Check local notice rules

    Most areas require renewal/non-renewal notices 30-90 days before lease end; some rent-controlled areas require more.

  2. Step 2: Decide terms early

    Confirm rent, term length and any policy changes before drafting.

  3. Step 3: Send the letter

    Mail or email per the lease notice clause; keep a signed/dated copy and proof of delivery.

  4. Step 4: Get a signed response

    Ask the tenant to sign and return by the deadline, or sign a new lease.

  5. Step 5: Handle non-response

    If the tenant does not respond, follow local law — typically the lease goes month-to-month or the tenant must vacate.

Rent increase letter

When renewing with a rent change, a standalone notice may be required.

Lease termination agreement

Mutual agreement to end the lease instead of renewing.

Notice to vacate

Non-renewal notice when a tenant or landlord is ending the tenancy.

Residential lease agreement

The new lease for the renewal term.

Free landlord forms

Full landlord/tenant template set.

Questions

Do I have to offer a renewal?

In most places no — unless rent control or local ordinance requires it. You can choose not to renew with proper notice.

How much notice is required?

Typically 30-60 days before the lease ends; longer for month-to-month tenancies and in rent-controlled areas.

Can I raise rent on renewal?

Yes, subject to local rent control, notice requirements and any rent-cap ordinances.

Is a verbal renewal binding?

Usually no — multi-month leases over a year generally need to be in writing under the statute of frauds.

What if the tenant stays without signing?

They typically become a holdover or month-to-month tenant under the existing terms, per local law.

Browse all free templates →

These are general templates, not legal or tax advice. Have anything unusual reviewed for your jurisdiction.

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