What do I need to do if I want to end my tenancy early?
Tenancy agreements are legal documents between you and your landlord that cover the details of your lease. This will also include a start and end date.
Ending your tenancy early is a big decision and there is a certain process you have to follow.
Ending a tenancy early can be complicated and you want to try and made it as easy for yourself as possible. In this stressful time, you want to avoid any trouble or financial issues so it is super important to follow the right procedures of your letting agent.
Fixed term agreements
Most student tenancy agreements will be for a fixed term, Normally they will start in July and run through to June. Some contracts, particularly in private halls can run for a full year.
Therefore if you want to leave early it can be quite tricky. Sometimes you may find a 'break clause in your agreement and this will make things easier, however, this is rare in a student tenancy.
Finding a replacement tenant
A replacement tenant is someone who effectively agrees to ‘takeover’ the tenancy agreement you originally signed. If you find another student to do this they will then be able to move into your room and pay the rent.
Most student landlords or halls or residence are open to this and in some cases may even help you. There are also specialist websites that are set up specifically to help you find a replacement tenant.
Although it isn't ideal for you, you do have to keep in mind that you have signed an agreement for a specific period of time and your landlord doesn't have to agree to end your tenancy early. If you do leave the property you will still need to pay the rent until the contract period ends or you find a replacement tenant.
Although this isn’t the best outcome, it is important that you are aware of this as it may well impact your decision to stay or move out of the property.
Leaving early
If you do decide to leave early, make sure you follow the correct procedures as set out in your tenancy agreement. In particular, you will need to continue paying rent until the original end of the tenancy or until someone takes over your contract.
Giving notice will usually involve giving written notice (email is fine!) to your landlord or letting agent that states the date you intend to leave the property. Make sure you keep a copy of this notice for your records.
This is particularly helpful in a hall of residence as the hall manager may accept the room back in the condition you have left it at that point. However, in a shared house it is likely that the landlord will not accept your room back until the end of the tenancy - meaning you will remain liable for any damages that occur after you leave and until someone takes over your tenancy or it ends.
The importance of communication
Positive communication with your landlord, hall manager or agent is the key to success here. The better this is the more favourable your situation is likely to be.
Keeping records is a general top tip, not just related to ending tenancy agreements, so don’t delete all your emails or throw away your letters - they may be handy one day!
If you are moving out and need to find someone to take over your tenancy, check out our guide.
