How to give notice and end a tenancy successfully
Ending a tenancy can be a stressful and complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re a renter looking to end your tenancy agreement, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to give notice and end your lease successfully.
Step 1: Check your lease agreement
The first step in ending a tenancy is to review your lease agreement to see what it says about ending the tenancy. Before you give notice, ensure you understand your lease agreement’s terms. Most lease agreements will have a section that explains how to give notice, how long the notice period is, and any other requirements you need to meet. Knowing your rights and obligations can help you avoid any legal or financial issues down the track.
Step 2: Give written notice
Once you’ve checked your tenancy agreement, you’ll need to give written notice to your property manager to end your tenancy. Provide a clear and concise letter stating your intention to vacate, the date you plan to move out, and your new contact information. Make sure to keep a copy of the letter for your records.
Step 3: Wait for a response
Once you’ve sent the notice, you’ll need to wait for a response from the other party. They may accept your notice and agree to end the tenancy on the specified date, or they may dispute your notice and raise concerns. If there are any disputes over the notice, you’ll need to address these. This may involve negotiating with the other party, seeking mediation, or going to court.
Step 4: Schedule a move-out inspection:
Ask your property manager to schedule a move-out inspection before your move-out date. This will give you an opportunity to identify any damages or repairs that need to be made before you leave. If there are any damages, try to fix them yourself or hire a professional. This will help you avoid any deductions from your security deposit. If you’re unsure, you can always refer to the initial condition report photos your property manager took when you first moved in. Check out our Renter Blog: The Ultimate guide to preparing for rental inspections.
Now that you’ve provided notice, you may want to start looking and applying for new rental homes. Start by building up your Snug Profile with your rental history, income, employment, identity documents and an optional background check. Then when you’re ready to apply, all your information is ready, and you can apply in a matter of minutes!
Step 5: Clean the property thoroughly:
Before you move out, you must ensure the property is cleaned thoroughly. You can ask your property manager to advise you of their preferred professional end-of-lease cleaner, or if you are prepared, you can do the end-of-lease clean yourself. This includes dusting, vacuuming, wiping down surfaces, cleaning appliances, and garden/yard work if applicable. Don’t forget to remove all personal belongings and trash. A clean property will help you get your security deposit back in full. Your property manager should also provide you with an extensive end-of-lease cleaning checklist for you to follow, or you can check out our Ultimate Deep Clean Checklist for your rental.
Step 7: Return the keys
On the day the tenancy ends, you’ll need to return the keys to the property to the property manager. The property manager should provide information in advance about key return, including timing and location. Make sure to get a receipt that confirms the return of keys and the end of your tenancy.
Step 8: Finalize the paperwork
Finally, you’ll need to finalise the paperwork to end the tenancy. This may include agreeing on a final rent statement, resolving any outstanding issues, and releasing any security deposits. Your property manager has a certain period of time to return your security deposit. If you don’t receive your deposit back, follow up with your property manager and request an explanation for any deductions.
Here are some helpful resources with the latest regulations in each state:
- New South Wales: NSW Government Fair Trading & NSW Tenants Union
- Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
- Queensland: Residential Tenancy Authority
- Western Australia: Department of Consumer Protection
- South Australia: SA.GOV.au
- Tasmania: Consumer, Building, and Occupational Services
In conclusion, giving notice and ending a tenancy can be a smooth and straightforward process if you follow the steps outlined above. By working together with your property manager and following the terms of your tenancy agreement, you can end your tenancy on good terms and avoid any disputes.
Once you’ve successfully ended your tenancy, you can refer to our Ultimate Moving Guide for Renters for tips and tricks on moving to your new rental home.