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Notice to vacate

Reviewed by Clausery editors · · 3 min read

A formal letter from a landlord ending a tenancy (for cause or end of lease) or from a tenant giving notice they will leave - stating the last day, move-out requirements and next steps.

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A notice to vacate tells the other party the tenancy is ending on a specific date. Landlords use it for non-renewal of a lease, end of a month-to-month tenancy or termination for cause; tenants use it to give required notice before moving out.

Notice periods are set by state and local law (typically 30, 60 or 90 days; longer in rent-controlled areas). Get the period and delivery method right - a defective notice can restart the clock.

What to include#

  • Parties and property. Tenant and landlord/manager names, property address and unit.
  • Reason (if for cause). If terminating for cause (non-payment, lease violation), cite the lease clause and any prior notices; no-cause/end-of-lease notices just state the end date.
  • Move-out date. The date by which the tenant must be out with all belongings and keys returned; calculated from proper service of the notice.
  • Move-out requirements. Cleaning standard, condition expectations, return of keys, forwarding address for the security deposit.
  • Next steps. What happens if the tenant does not leave (eviction filing) or what the landlord will do (inspection, deposit return per local law).

How to fill it in#

  1. Step 1: Check required notice period

    Confirm the minimum notice days and permitted reasons for your jurisdiction and lease type.

  2. Step 2: Calculate the vacate date

    Count days from proper service (not mailing); state the exact date.

  3. Step 3: Cite cause if applicable

    Reference the lease violation and any prior notices (late rent, unauthorised occupant, etc.).

  4. Step 4: Deliver as required

    Hand delivery, posting plus certified mail, or other method required by local law. Email alone is usually insufficient.

  5. Step 5: Keep proof of service

    Certificate of service signed by the person delivering, plus postal receipts and photographs.

Late rent notice

Pay-or-quit notice when rent is overdue.

Lease termination agreement

Mutual agreement to end the lease early.

Eviction notice

Court-stage notice after notice to vacate expires.

Security deposit return letter

Itemised deductions and refund after move-out.

Free landlord forms

Full landlord/tenant template set.

Questions

Landlord or tenant can send it?

Both - landlords serve it to end a tenancy; tenants send it to give required notice they are leaving.

How much notice?

Typically 30-60 days for month-to-month; longer in rent-controlled areas; fixed leases usually expire without notice. Check local law.

Email enough?

Rarely. Most jurisdictions require hand delivery, posting and/or certified mail for termination notices.

What if they don't leave?

You must file eviction (unlawful detainer) in court. Self-help (lockouts, utility shutoffs) is illegal.

Can I revoke the notice?

If the tenant agrees in writing - but if they dispute it you may have to start over.

Browse all templates →

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

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