Templates & Checklists

Free Non-renewal of Lease Letter Template

A lease non-renewal letter is a document that a landlord sends to a tenant informing them that their lease agreement will not be renewed once it expires. This type of letter is usually sent out 30-60 days before the lease agreement is set to expire. It is important for landlords to know how to properly draft and deliver a lease non-renewal letter to ensure that their legal rights are protected and to avoid any unnecessary legal issues.

Does a Landlord Need a Reason to Not Renew a Lease?

In most states, landlords are not required to provide a reason for not renewing a lease agreement. Landlords have the right to choose not to renew a lease agreement for any reason, as long as it is not discriminatory or retaliatory. Discriminatory reasons would include discrimination based on a tenant's race, religion, gender, or other protected classes. Retaliatory reasons would include a landlord choosing not to renew a lease agreement as retaliation for a tenant exercising their legal rights, such as filing a complaint or request for repairs.

Common Reasons for Not Renewing a Lease

Here are some common reasons why a landlord may choose not to renew a lease agreement:

  • The landlord wants to sell the property.
  • The landlord wants to make renovations to the property.
  • The landlord wants to use the property for personal use.
  • The tenant has violated the terms of the lease agreement.
  • The landlord and tenant have had ongoing conflicts or issues.


When Does a Lease Non-Renewal Letter Need to be Sent?

A lease non-renewal letter should be sent out 30-60 days before the lease agreement is set to expire. This will give the tenant enough time to find a new place to live and make necessary arrangements.

How Should a Lease Non-Renewal Letter be Delivered?

The best delivery method for a lease non-renewal letter is via certified mail with return receipt requested. This will provide proof that the letter was delivered and received by the tenant.

What Happens Once a Lease Non-Renewal Letter is Sent?

Once the lease non-renewal letter is sent, the tenant has two options. They can either vacate the property at the end of the lease agreement, or they can choose to remain in the property beyond the lease agreement, which is known as "holding over." If the tenant holds over, the landlord may need to take legal action to have them evicted.

What is a Hold Over?

A hold over is when a tenant remains in a rental property after their lease agreement has expired. This is also known as "tenancy at sufferance." If a tenant holds over, the landlord can take legal action to have them evicted.

Steps After the Tenant Acknowledges the Lease Non-Renewal Letter and Vacates the Property:

Once the tenant acknowledges the lease non-renewal letter and vacates the property, the landlord should take the following steps:

  • Conduct a final walkthrough of the property with the tenant to document any damages.
  • Return the security deposit to the tenant, minus any deductions for damages or unpaid rent.
  • Provide the tenant with a copy of the final walkthrough report and an itemized list of any deductions from the security deposit.


How to Write a Lease Non-Renewal Letter

Here is a sample lease non-renewal letter that landlords can use as a guide:

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Date]

[Tenant's Name]

[Tenant's Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Tenant's Name],

I am writing to inform you that your lease agreement for the property located at [Property Address] will not be renewed after the current lease term expires on [Lease Expiration Date].

Please be advised that you are required to vacate the property by the end of the lease term. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

State Laws Regarding Lease Non-Renewal Letters

Each state has its own laws regarding lease non-renewal letters. Here are some bullet points outlining the laws for all 50 states:

  • Arizona - 30 days
  • Alabama - 30 days
  • Arkansas - 30 days
  • Alaska - 30 days
  • Connecticut - 3 days
  • Colorado - 21 days
  • California - 30 days
  • Delaware - 60 days
  • Florida - 15 days
  • Georgia - 60 days
  • Hawaii - 45 days
  • Illinois - 30 days
  • Idaho - 30 days
  • Iowa - 30 days
  • Indiana - 30 days
  • Kentucky - 30 days
  • Kansas - 30 days
  • Louisiana - 10 days
  • Maryland - 60 days
  • Maine - 30 days
  • Massachusetts - The longer of 30 days or the interval between the days or rent payment
  • Mississippi - 30 days
  • Minnesota - The lesser of three months or the interval between the time rent is due
  • Michigan - One month
  • Montana - 30 days
  • Missouri - One month
  • Nevada - 30 days
  • Nebraska - 30 days
  • New Jersey - One month
  • New Hampshire - 30 days
  • New York - 30 to 90 days, depending on the length of the lease
  • New Mexico - 30 days
  • North Dakota - One month
  • North Carolina - 7 days
  • Ohio - 30 days
  • Oregon - Between 30 and 90 days, depending on the length of the lease
  • Oklahoma - 30 days
  • Pennsylvania - 15 days
  • Rhode Island - 30 days
  • South Dakota - One month
  • South Carolina - 30 days
  • Texas - One month
  • Tennessee - 30 days
  • Utah - 15 days
  • Virginia - 30 days
  • Vermont - 30 days
  • Washington D.C. - 30 days
  • Washington - 20 days
  • Wyoming - No statute
  • Wisconsin - 28 days
  • West Virginia - One month

Can a Tenant Decide Not to Renew the Lease?

Yes, tenants have the right to decide not to renew a lease agreement. Tenants should provide their landlord with written notice of their intent not to renew the lease agreement in a timely manner, as specified in the lease agreement.

Closing

In conclusion, lease non-renewal letters are an important part of the landlord-tenant relationship. It is important for landlords to know their legal rights and obligations when it comes to non-renewing a lease agreement. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post, landlords can help ensure a smooth and legally compliant non-renewal process.

Hello and welcome!

My name is Nick Caucci and I help run the Rentroom blog. Over the years, I have seen and helped many different property managers and owner-operators streamline their daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly workflows.

This page may contain affiliate links.

Related Articles

The Significance of Security Deposits: Understanding Deductions and Protecting Landlords' Interests

Learn about the permissible deductions landlords can make from these deposits and understand the distinction between damage and wear and tear. We also delve into the legal recourse available to tenants if their security deposit is not returned. Whether you're a landlord seeking financial protection or a tenant wanting to safeguard your rights, this comprehensive guide provides valuable insights to ensure a fair and transparent rental experience.
Legal

Managing Your Property: Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages of Property Management

Learn about the pros and cons of hiring a property manager for your rental property. Discover the benefits of expert guidance and stress-free property management, as well as potential drawbacks and considerations to keep in mind.
Templates & Checklists

How to Seamlessly Transition to a New Property Management Software

This blog post explores the benefits of switching to a modern property management system and offers tips for a smooth transition. We discuss why old tracking methods like pencil and paper, Excel spreadsheets, and QuickBooks are no longer suitable for modern property management. We highlight three reasons to consider a new system, compare QuickBooks to dedicated property management software, list ten features to look for in a system, and provide five transition tips. By following our advice, you can streamline your operations, save time and money, and improve your property management.
Templates & Checklists

How to Write a Tenant Welcome Letter (Sample Included)

The post provides a comprehensive guide on what should be included in the letter, including details on move-in dates, utility reminders, renters insurance requirements, maintenance procedures, parking information, neighborhood guidelines, property condition, laundry and trash collection information, and other property rules. The guide also offers a sample tenant welcome letter that can be downloaded and used as a template. Overall, a tenant welcome letter is an important step in establishing clear communication and setting expectations for a successful tenancy.
Templates & Checklists

Free Non-renewal of Lease Letter Template

We have provided a comprehensive guide to help educate landlords on the process of non-renewing a lease agreement. We have explained what a lease non-renewal letter is and when it needs to be sent. We have also provided information on state laws regarding non-renewal notices and a sample letter for landlords to use as a reference. Additionally, we have covered common reasons for non-renewal and what can happen once the letter is sent, including holdovers and steps that can occur after the tenant vacates the property. Lastly, we have covered tenant rights when it comes to deciding not to renew a lease agreement. By following the guidelines outlined in this post, landlords can ensure a smooth and legally compliant non-renewal process.
Templates & Checklists

Free Security Deposit Return Letter Template

A security deposit refund letter is a crucial document that must be provided to tenants by landlords to ensure a smooth and successful security deposit return process. This blog post covers the importance of a security deposit refund letter, how to write one, what to include in it, how to send it to tenants, what not to do, and the legal consequences of failing to return a security deposit. Additionally, we discussed situations where landlords can withhold some or all of the deposit and alternatives to providing a security deposit refund letter. By following these guidelines, landlords can fulfill their legal obligations and maintain positive relationships with their tenants.
Templates & Checklists

What is a Past Due Rent Notice | Free Past Due Rent Notice for Tenants

Learn the importance of past due rent notices for landlords. We defined what a past due or late rent notice is and provided guidance on when and how to send one. We also covered best practices for drafting and sending the notice, including what information to include, how to maintain a professional tone, and how to keep a record of delivery. Additionally, we highlighted the potential consequences of not sending a notice and explained the legal procedures landlords should follow if payment is not received.
Templates & Checklists

Navigating Rent Collection: The Pros and Cons of Accepting Partial Payments in 2023

This post discusses the pros and cons of accepting partial payments from tenants who are struggling to pay rent. It also compares the alternative approach of offering payment plans and discusses how property management software like Rentroom can help landlords manage their rental properties and payment collection processes. Ultimately, the decision to accept partial payments or offer payment plans will depend on the individual circumstances of the landlord and the tenant, and landlords should carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of each approach. Property management software like Rentroom can provide added control and customization to the rent collection process through features like the ability to toggle partial payments on and off.
Legal

Using PayPal Or Venmo To Collect Rent? Think Again!

Payment apps like Venmo or PayPal may not be the best option for landlords with multiple properties or many tenants. These apps have transaction limits and lack advanced features, making property management software, like Rentroom, a more suitable choice for managing multiple properties and tenants. Property management software provides features like automation, scalability, and reporting capabilities to help manage a large number of properties and tenants. It's important for landlords and tenants to keep accurate records and understand the tax implications of using Venmo or PayPal for rent payments.
Templates & Checklists

Pros and Cons: Cash Payments for your Rental Properties?

As a landlord, there are both pros and cons to accepting cash payments from tenants. On the one hand, cash payments provide a level of anonymity and privacy, and for some tenants, paying in cash may be more convenient or traditional. On the other hand, accepting cash payments can be challenging for landlords, particularly when it comes to tracking payments and ensuring compliance with legal and tax requirements.
Legal

10 Steps for Writing an Effective Rental Listing to Find New Tenants

Find your next tenants with ease by following our expert tips on writing effective rental listings. Learn how to showcase your property's best features and reach a wider audience with our step-by-step guide.
Templates & Checklists

Free Pet Addendum for Residential Lease Agreements

This post covers the topic of pets in rental properties and why it is important for landlords to have a pet addendum in place. The post explains what a pet addendum is, when landlords need one, the pros and cons of allowing pets in the building, and the process of writing a pet addendum. The post also covers the pet deposit, the legal requirements surrounding emotional support animals, and the potential consequences of not covering all types of pets in a lease agreement. The post concludes by emphasizing the importance of having a clear understanding of the laws and guidelines surrounding pets in rental properties and the benefits of having a comprehensive pet addendum in place.
Templates & Checklists

How to Find New Tenants for Your Rentals on Craigslist

Filling vacancies can be a challenging task for property managers and landlords. One of the most effective ways to attract potential renters is by posting listings on websites like Craigslist. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of creating a compelling listing, selecting the right location, using high-quality photos, promoting your listing, managing response times, and previewing your listing. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of filling vacancies and attract new tenants.
Templates & Checklists

Can Tenants Change The Locks Without Landlord Permission?

This post provides information on the laws and best practices for changing locks in a rental property. Tenants generally have the right to change their locks with the landlord's permission, but laws vary by state and municipality. Reasons for changing locks include feeling unsafe, wanting more privacy, and improving security. Smart locks can provide added convenience and security, but may come with limitations and potential issues. Landlords should consider the costs and benefits of changing locks and weigh them against potential legal liability.
Legal

Arkansas Eviction Laws: Process & Guide for Landlords in 2023

Massachusetts eviction laws are complicated. They require you to follow specific processes before you’re able to evict a tenant. Failure to follow those processes could lead to unwanted tenants remaining in your property. Worse yet, certain actions you take could provide the tenant with a perfect defense against eviction. They may even lead to fines, penalties, and jail time, especially if you try to take the eviction into your own hands. The message is simple: You need to know the law before you attempt to evict a tenant.
Eviction Laws

How To Write A Rent Increase Notice: Free Template for Landlords in 2023

Learn how to effectively communicate a rent increase to your tenants with this detailed guide. Discover the best way to notify tenants, reasons for a possible rent increase, limits, and a template for writing a rent increase letter. Ensure compliance with local laws and maintain a positive landlord-tenant relationship with this helpful guide.
Templates & Checklists

What is a Rent Ledger and Why Keeping A Record Of Rent Payments Is Important

A rent ledger is an essential tool for landlords and property managers to keep track of rent payments made by tenants. It is a detailed record of all rent payments, including the date the rent was paid, the amount paid, the payment method, and any late fees or additional charges. Rent ledgers can be physical or digital, and they can be used as evidence in case of an eviction or a legal dispute. Rentroom is a property management software that provides a rent ledger report feature, which allows landlords to easily keep track of rent payments, filter the report by tenant, property, or date range and export the report to a CSV file. By keeping accurate records of rent payments, landlords and property managers can ensure that all rent payments have been made on time and in full and can have a clear record of the financial transactions between the landlord and tenant.
Templates & Checklists

The 13 Best Rental Property Management Software Providers of 2024

Are you in the market for property management software but not sure where to start? Look no further! Our latest blog post compares 13 top providers, detailing their pros, cons, and pricing. Don't miss out on the valuable insights and information we've gathered to help you find the perfect fit for your business needs.
Product Comparisons

How To Write A Lease Addendum

A comprehensive understanding of what a lease addendum is, why it is often needed, how to add one to a lease and the different types of lease addendums. It also highlights the importance of compliance with lease addendum laws, which vary by state and local jurisdiction and it provides an example of a lease addendum. Additionally, it includes information on how to write an addendum to a lease, ensuring that it is consistent with the original lease agreement and does not contradict any existing terms. This information can be useful for landlords, tenants, and legal professionals when dealing with lease addendums.
Templates & Checklists

How to Create a Flawless Rental Resume

It is good practice for tenants and landlords to work off of rental resumes because it provides a clear and concise way to present and review important information about the tenant. For tenants, a rental resume can help to increase their chances of being accepted as a tenant by demonstrating their responsibility and reliability as a tenant. It also allows them to present their rental history, employment history, and financial information in an organized manner. For landlords and property managers, a rental resume provides a quick and easy way to review the tenant's qualifications and determine if they are a reliable tenant. It helps them to understand the tenant's employment stability, rental history, and financial situation, which can help to minimize the risk of rent defaults and evictions.
Templates & Checklists

How To Write A Landlord Rental Recommendation Letter For A Tenant

As a landlord, one of your most important responsibilities is to find and select tenants who will take care of your property and pay rent on time. A rental reference letter can help you make an informed decision when deciding to rent your property to prospective tenants. This process is remarkably easy and can provide landlords and property managers with a level of comfort that they are renting to someone with a positive track record. This is why as an industry, it is helpful to require reference letter and also provide letters for former tenants.
Templates & Checklists

Delaware Eviction Laws: Process & Guide for Landlords in 2022

Landlords can turn their properties into a steady source of passive income by renting them out. But if you try to do that without knowing the different eviction laws in Delaware, you could run into trouble when you need to evict a tenant from one of your properties.In Delaware, following the proper eviction procedures is essential.Inadequately following the necessary steps provides the tenant with a defense that they can utilize to justify extending their tenure in your property. These counterarguments may, in certain circumstances, be powerful enough to render void the complaint that you file against the tenant. You can make certain that the necessary procedures are followed and that you have a valid case for eviction if you collaborate with a professional attorney throughout the course of the eviction process. In addition, having the tenant consult with an attorney during the drafting process of the lease agreement helps ensure that the tenant is aware of their rights as well as the possible consequences that may result from a violation of the agreement.
Eviction Laws

Rentroom vs. TenantCloud: Property Management Software Comparison

Making the right choice is imperative when selecting a property management software tool. At Rentroom, we understand that once you choose a software partner, get onboarded, and invite your tenants...chances are you and your business will stick with the product you select for an extended period. In this post we examine TenantCloud vs. Rentroom.
Product Comparisons

Rentroom vs. Rentredi: Property Management Software Comparison

Making the right choice is imperative when selecting a property management software tool. At Rentroom, we understand that once you choose a software partner, get onboarded, and invite your tenants...chances are you and your business will stick with the product you select for an extended period. In this post we examine RentRedi vs. Rentroom.
Product Comparisons

Rentroom vs. Doorloop: Property Management Software Comparison

Making the right choice is imperative when selecting a property management software tool. At Rentroom, we understand that once you choose a software partner, get onboarded, and invite your tenants...chances are you and your business will stick with the product you select for an extended period. In this post we examine Doorloop vs. Rentroom.
Product Comparisons

30-Day Notice to Vacate: Free Template for Landlords in 2022

A 30-day notice to vacate is a legal document that a landlord sends to a tenant who they wish to evict. Alternative terms include eviction notice or lease termination letter. As the name implies, the document gives the tenant 30 days’ notice of their eviction, which gives them enough time to make new living arrangements or contest the reason for eviction stated in the letter.
Templates & Checklists

Rental Inspection Checklist: Free Templates for Landlords 2023

Landlords should use these reports before welcoming tenants, after tenants leave, and during tenancies. They’re vital for identifying potential issues. Rental inspection reports also give you the opportunity to ask your tenants about any problems they’re experiencing.
Templates & Checklists

Massachusetts Eviction Laws: Process & Guide for Landlords in 2023

Massachusetts eviction laws are complicated. They require you to follow specific processes before you’re able to evict a tenant. Failure to follow those processes could lead to unwanted tenants remaining in your property. Worse yet, certain actions you take could provide the tenant with a perfect defense against eviction. They may even lead to fines, penalties, and jail time, especially if you try to take the eviction into your own hands. The message is simple: You need to know the law before you attempt to evict a tenant.
Eviction Laws

Important Rental Property Tax Deductions in 2023

Rental property investors have access to a number of key tax write-offs. Make sure your business is taking advantage of these.
Real Estate Taxes

Rentroom Case Study: Ambassador Apartments

Ambassador Apartments is a manager of student housing assets in Upstate New York carting to SUNY Genesio students. Ambassador currently manages over 240 beds. Steve and his team have been using Rentroom for over a year.
Case Study
View All Blog Articles