All good things will eventually come to an end and when the time comes it is vital that you follow the right process in order that you and your landlord to have a positive outcome.
We aim to discuss here what steps you can take as a tenant in order to make that happen
Ending my tenancy
Initially, it would be beneficial to check what your tenancy agreement says in order to end your agreement or serve notice.
Most tenancies will refer to the process to follow to inform your landlord that you want the tenancy to come to an end.
It is usually required that 1 months notice be given in writing (letter format) in line with rent due dates.
When to do it ?
On a fixed term tenancy the landlord would normally be in touch about 2 months before the end of the tenancy to ask if you plan on remaining in the property. If you do not wish to remain in the property you should follow the notice process.
Example - The tenancy is due to end on the 15th August and the tenant does not wish to remain in the property. The tenant would need to provide written notice to the landlord by the 14th July for the tenancy to come to a close on the 15th August. Some tenancies will accept an email but make sure. It is a good idea to check to make sure that your landlord has received it the notice to avoid any confusion.
In a periodic rolling tenancy notice can be given at any point but usually still needs to be 1 months notice be given in writing (letter format) in line with rent due dates.
Example - rent is due on the 15th of the month and the tenant wishes the tenancy to end on the 15th August. The tenant would need to provide written notice to the landlord by the 14th July for the tenancy to come to a close on the 15th August. Some tenancies will accept an email but make sure. It is a good idea to check to make sure that your landlord has received it the notice to avoid any confusion.
Ending the tenancy early
If you want to leave early, then you will need to speak to your landlord about this and ensure that they are in agreement. If you do not you will be subject to paying rent until the end of the tenancy as you have signed a legally binding contract.
Most agreements will have a clause that states a tenant who wants to leave early can be charged for any costs incurred to re-let the property, so you may want to help find another tenant. You will be liable for rent until the new tenancy commences.
Arranging to sign a "surrender" agreement with your landlord is the best option.
Joint and several tenancies
It is also worth checking whether your Agreement is "joint and several" as this could mean if your housemate was to leave that you could be liable for their rental share. This would depend on the type of tenancy agreement you have signed.