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.
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
