How to end a tenancy and move out

Before sending notice, check the rental agreement for the required notice period and any permitted termination dates.

The rules may depend on whether the tenancy is fixed-term or open-ended.

Missing a deadline can sometimes extend the tenancy or create additional rent obligations.

A termination letter should clearly state which tenancy is being ended and the intended end date.

Use the property address and tenant details shown in the rental agreement.

If several tenants are named in the contract, check whether all of them must sign or participate in the notice.

Some tenancy rules depend on when the landlord receives the notice rather than when you send it.

Use the communication method required by the contract or local law where applicable.

Keep proof of sending and any acknowledgement from the landlord or property manager.

The landlord or property manager may confirm the end date, inspection arrangements and other move-out instructions.

Compare the confirmed date with the notice you sent and the rental agreement.

If the dates do not match, resolve the issue early rather than shortly before moving out.

A tenant may be responsible for certain damage, but normal wear and tear is usually treated differently from tenant-caused damage.

Do not assume that every mark, scratch or ageing item automatically has to be replaced at your expense.

If repairs are requested, ask for a clear explanation of what is considered your responsibility.

The rental agreement or move-out instructions may state how clean the property must be when returned.

Some contracts use general wording, while others contain specific requirements.

Take photographs after cleaning if the condition may later become disputed.

The move-out inspection compares the condition of the property with the condition at the start of the tenancy.

Bring or have access to the move-in report, inventory and photographs if possible.

Read the final report carefully before signing, especially where damage or charges are recorded.

If a defect is recorded that you believe was pre-existing or normal wear and tear, raise the issue clearly.

Ask for the report to reflect your disagreement where possible.

Keep your own photographs and written comments rather than relying only on a verbal discussion.

The landlord may expect the return of every key, card, remote control or other access device provided during the tenancy.

Compare the move-out list with the original handover record.

Ask for written confirmation of what was returned.

Final electricity, gas, water or heating readings can help separate your consumption from that of the next occupant.

Photograph the meters where useful and keep the readings with the move-out documents.

The tenancy may end before all utility or service-charge costs are known.

A final reconciliation can therefore arrive after you move out.

Keep your forwarding address and payment details up to date so final invoices or credits reach you.

The landlord may return the deposit in full, deduct agreed amounts or temporarily retain part of it while final costs are calculated.

Ask for a written breakdown of any deduction.

The process and timing depend on how the deposit was held and on local tenancy rules.

The landlord or property manager may need to send the final statement, deposit documents or other correspondence after you leave.

Provide an address or contact method that will remain valid after the tenancy ends.

Do not discard the tenancy documents immediately after returning the keys.

Start by identifying whether the disagreement concerns rent, damage, cleaning, service charges or the deposit.

Ask for a written calculation and the documents supporting the amount claimed.

For significant disputes, local tenant advice, mediation or legal advice may be appropriate.