What do tenants need to know to break a lease without penalty?

In California, tenants must be aware of their lease agreement in order to break it without penalty. Most leases stipulate the grounds on which a tenant may legally break the lease. Common examples include an inability to afford the rent, the need to be close to a new job, or if the rental unit becomes uninhabitable. If any of these circumstances occur, the tenant must inform the landlord in writing of their intention to terminate the lease. The tenant must give the landlord a 30-day notice, and provide proof if needed like a letter from an employer or doctor’s note. The tenant is then responsible for paying any remaining rent for the duration of the notice period, as well as other expenses outlined in the lease such as utilities or parking fees. In addition, the tenant may be required to find a new tenant or pay a portion of the remaining rent before they can leave the rental unit. If neither of these options are possible, the tenant should check with the local housing authority or landlord-tenant office to see if they can qualify for an eviction moratorium or if there are any local laws that may provide relief. Ultimately, tenants should be sure to read their lease agreement thoroughly and understand their rights and responsibilities before breaking a lease.

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What do tenants need to know to break a lease without penalty?

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