Moving on from a rental property can sometimes feel daunting. One crucial step is to give your landlord a notice to quit (NTQ) the tenancy. This document tells your landlord that you intend to leave the property, and signals the end of your lease agreement. In this guide, we’ll cover everything that UK tenants need to know including how to serve a written notice to quit, practical tips, legal requirements and examples to help you navigate the process smoothly.
What is a notice to quit?
A written notice to quit is a formal declaration by a tenant or landlord to end a tenancy agreement. For tenants, it serves as a written confirmation that they intend to vacate the property. This notice is legally binding and must meet certain requirements to be valid. Failing to give proper notice could lead to disputes, financial penalties or difficulties reclaiming your deposit.
When should a tenant serve a notice to quit tenancy?
The timing of your notice to quit depends on several factors including your type of tenancy. Below is general advice, though you should always check your tenancy agreement to be sure.
Fixed-term tenancy
If you’re in a fixed-term agreement (like six months or one year), you typically cannot end the tenancy early. The only exception is if your contract includes a break clause or you and your landlord mutually agree to terminate it. Just bear in mind, if the tenancy rolls over after the fixed term, you’ll have a periodic tenancy which comes with different rules.
Periodic tenancy
For periodic (or rolling) tenancies, tenants usually need to provide one month’s notice if they pay rent monthly. However, this isn't always the case - the notice period must usually align with your rent payment schedule.
Monthly periodic tenancy: If rent is paid every month, you must give at least one full month's notice.
Four-weekly periodic tenancy: If rent is paid every four weeks, you need to provide at least four weeks’ notice.
Weekly periodic tenancy: For weekly tenancies, you must give at least one week’s notice.
Learn more in our full guide to what is a periodic tenancy.
How to work out your tenancy end date
Typically, a legal notice will end on the first or last day of your tenancy period. The first day of your tenancy period is the day your periodic tenancy started. It can sometimes be the date your rent is due, but this isn't always the case.
Example
If your tenancy starts on 2nd January:
The first day of your tenancy period would be the 2nd
The last day of your tenancy period would be the 1st
How to give a notice to a landlord
💡Editor's insight: "Always check if your tenancy agreement says how you should give notice. If it doesn’t say anything, give notice by writing a letter. It’s also an idea to ask your landlord to confirm in writing they’ve received it for your own records."
How to write a notice to quit
A written notice to quit must include specific details to be valid. Here’s what you should include:
Tenant’s information: Include your full name and current address.
Landlord’s information: Address the notice to your landlord or letting agent as specified in your tenancy agreement.
Statement of intent: Clearly state your intention to end the tenancy.
Notice period: Specify the date when you will vacate the property, ensuring it aligns with your tenancy’s notice requirements.
Signature: Sign and date the notice to confirm its authenticity.
UK notice to quit template
A written notice to quit doesn't have to be a work of art. Here’s a simple template to guide you:
[Your full name]
[Your address]
[City, postcode]
[Date]
[Landlord’s name or letting agent’s name]
[Landlord’s address or letting agency address]
[City, postcode]
Subject: Notice to quit
Dear [Landlord/Letting agent],
I am writing to formally notify you of my intention to end the tenancy at [rental property address]. This notice complies with the [tenancy agreement/periodic tenancy terms], and I am providing [insert notice period, for example, one month’s] notice, as required.
My tenancy will officially end on [end date], and I will ensure the property is vacated, and cleaned, and all keys returned by this date.
Please confirm receipt of this notice and let me know if there are any further steps I need to take before moving out.
Yours sincerely,
[Your full name]
[Your signature]
Leaving without giving notice
It's always recommended to notify your landlord and get their agreement to end a tenancy. If you leave without doing so, your tenancy will remain active, and you’ll still be responsible for paying rent until it is formally ended.
If you fail to pay your rent, your landlord could take legal action to recover the amount owed. Plus, leaving without proper notice can create challenges for you in the future, such as:
Difficulty securing a reference from your landlord
Losing your tenancy deposit
Accumulating rent arrears if the landlord continues to charge rent
FAQs
Can I give notice to quit before my fixed term ends?
Generally, tenants cannot terminate a fixed-term tenancy early unless the agreement includes a break clause or the landlord agrees to early termination. You may also have to pay fees or rent for the remainder of the fixed term if you leave prematurely without an agreement. You can learn more in our guide to how to get out of a tenancy agreement early.
How much notice do I need to give?
For periodic tenancies, the standard notice is at least one full rental period. For example, if you pay rent monthly on the 1st, your notice should cover a period up to the end of the following month.
Do I need to provide a written notice to quit if I only have a verbal agreement?
Yes, even if you have a verbal agreement, you must provide written notice to quit. This ensures clarity and serves as a legal record.
What happens if I don’t give proper notice?
Failing to provide adequate notice may result in financial penalties, difficulty reclaiming your deposit, or potential legal action from the landlord.
Can I give a notice to quit during a possession order?
No, during a possession order a tenant cannot give a notice to quit. Once the possession order is granted, the tenant will have 14 days to vacate.
Tips for ending a tenancy early
If you need to move out before the end of your tenancy agreement, consider these strategies:
Negotiate with your landlord: Many landlords are open to mutually terminating a tenancy, especially if they can find a replacement tenant quickly.
Sublet with permission: Some agreements allow subletting if the landlord consents.
Seek legal advice: If you’re unsure about your rights, consult a housing solicitor or Citizens Advice for guidance.
Our recap: Checklist for tenants
To ensure a smooth transition, follow this checklist:
Provide written notice: Send your notice to quit in writing, keeping a copy for your records.
Confirm receipt: Ask your landlord or letting agent to acknowledge receipt of your notice.
Clean the property: Ensure the property is cleaned thoroughly to avoid disputes over your deposit.
Return all keys: Failure to return keys may result in additional charges.
Document the condition: Take photos or videos of the property as proof of its condition when you leave.
Final thoughts
Giving a notice to quit tenancy doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the legal requirements, following the correct process, and communicating clearly with your landlord, you can end your tenancy on good terms.
For further resources, consult organisations like Citizens Advice or Shelter, which provide free guidance for tenants in the UK. Or for full legal advice, we're here to help. Get a free quote today and see how our landlord solicitors can help you.
References
Tenancy agreements: a guide for landlords from Gov.UK