What Happens When You Break a Lease Contract

Breaking a lease contract is a serious decision that can have legal and financial consequences. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to break your lease agreement, it`s essential to understand what happens and what your options are.

First, it`s important to understand what a lease agreement is. A lease agreement is a legally binding contract between a landlord and a tenant. It outlines the terms of the rental agreement, such as the length of the lease, the rent amount and payment schedule, and the responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant.

Breaking a lease means that one party is not fulfilling their end of the contract. If a tenant breaks a lease, there can be legal and financial consequences. Here are some of the most common consequences of breaking a lease:

Loss of Security Deposit

The security deposit is a payment made by the tenant at the beginning of the lease term to secure the rental property. If the lease is broken, the landlord may be entitled to keep this deposit to cover any unpaid rent or damages.

Unpaid Rent

If the tenant breaks the lease, they may be required to pay the remaining rent due for the lease term. This can be a significant financial burden on the tenant.

Legal Action

The landlord may take legal action against the tenant for breaking the lease agreement. This can result in a court case and a judgment against the tenant.

Negative Impact on Credit Score

Breaking a lease can have a negative impact on the tenant`s credit score. If the tenant doesn`t pay any remaining rent or damages, the landlord may report this to a credit bureau, resulting in a negative mark on the tenant`s credit history.

Difficulty Renting in the Future

Breaking a lease can make it difficult for the tenant to rent in the future. Landlords may be hesitant to rent to a tenant with a history of breaking leases.

What Are Your Options?

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to break a lease, there are a few options available:

Sublease – If your lease agreement allows it, you may be able to sublease the rental property to another tenant. This means you find someone to take over your lease and pay the rent.

Negotiate with Landlord – You may be able to negotiate a compromise with your landlord. For example, the landlord may agree to release you from the lease if you pay a penalty fee.

Early Termination Clause – Some lease agreements have an early termination clause. This clause outlines the terms for breaking the lease early, such as paying a penalty fee.

Conclusion

Breaking a lease agreement is a serious decision that can have legal and financial consequences. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to break a lease, it`s important to understand your options and the potential consequences. Always try to negotiate with your landlord or explore subleasing options before deciding to break your lease.