What is a Notice to Vacate?
A notice to vacate is a letter that ends a rental agreement. Landlords send it to tenants when they need to move out.
When You Need One
You might need this notice when:
- The lease is ending
- Rent hasn’t been paid
- Rules were broken
- You’re selling the property
- Major repairs are needed
Essential Parts
Every good notice includes:
- Date – When you write the notice
- Names – Yours and the tenant’s full names
- Property Address – Where the tenant lives
- Move-Out Date – When they must leave
- Reason – Why they need to move (if required by law)
- Return Deposit Info – How they’ll get their money back
- Your Signature
Sample Template
I’ve created an artifact with a simple, ready-to-use template below. Feel free to copy and adjust it for your needs. How to Serve a Notice to Pay Rent or Quit – Free Template Inside
Legal Tips
Check your local laws before sending. Notice times vary by state and situation.
Most states require:
- 30 days for month-to-month rentals
- 60 days for longer leases
- 3-7 days for non-payment or serious lease breaks
Always keep proof you sent the notice. Send it by certified mail or hand-deliver it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the right notice period
- Forgetting to list the exact move-out date
- Using angry or harsh words
- Not keeping proof of delivery
- Skipping details about the security deposit
- Not citing the law that allows the eviction
Final Steps
After sending:
- Document when and how you sent it
- Follow up with a text or email reminder
- Plan for the move-out inspection
- Prepare to return the security deposit
- Start looking for a new tenant if needed
