How to Properly Give Notice When Moving out of a UK Rental Property

Switching houses. It can be the fresh start you’ve always dreamt about. However, it can also be quite daunting as a process.

Whether you already have a new place or are still figuring out your situation, there are a few steps you should take to move the process along smoothly.

That’s why we’re here. From notice periods to the dreaded end-of-tenancy cleaning, this guide covers all the bases.

Read on!

What Notice Period Should You Give?

First of all, it’s certainly not a good idea to leave without saying a word. You wouldn’t want your tenant to do that if you were the owner.

You need to notify your landlord beforehand to maintain amicable relations and avoid hefty fines. Your lease will determine the required notice period.

Assured shorthold tenancy is the most common agreement in Great Britain. If this is the type you’ve signed up for, you must inform the owner a month in advance.

The problem is, though, this has to line up with your rent’s due date. If you pay it on the first of every month, the notice you give must align with that.

For fixed-term tenancies, the situation is a bit different. You can leave during the contract period only if you invoke the break clause in your agreement. It will allow you or the owner to terminate the lease early.

Without this term, you’ll have to stay for the entire agreed-upon lease period unless both parties mutually agree to end the contract.

How to Properly Write a Notice Letter

Even in the digital age of today, a formal letter is still the best way to do this. Nevertheless, many real estate managers and landlords will accept an email. So, check the clauses in your lease agreement carefully to know how you should go about this.

In any case, a proper notice letter should include the following:

  • Your name and address;
  • Your landlord’s name and place of residence;
  • The date on which the letter is sent;
  • A clear statement that you’re giving notice to end the tenancy;
  • The day on which you plan to vacate the place;
  • A request for confirmation of the next steps, such as the final inspection and deposit return.

Always maintain a friendly tone. When talking about sensitive topics like deposit returns, a kind demeanour will help increase the chances of everything working in your favour.

End of Tenancy Cleaning

We’ve all heard horror stories of people losing hundreds of pounds from their collateral due to inadequate cleaning. How can one avoid that, though?

The answer lies in end of tenancy cleaning. It guarantees that the flat is in as good a condition as when you moved in while accounting for regular wear and tear.

Many lease agreements mandate professional cleanings, which can complicate matters.

If your contract mentions that verbatim, you’ll have to hire a firm unless you’re sure you can get similar results on your own.

Specialised services usually cover:

  • Cleaning all rooms thoroughly, including bedrooms, living areas, and common spaces;
  • Deep cleaning the kitchen, including oven, hob, and fridge;
  • Descaling shower heads and scrubbing tiles;
  • Steaming carpets and upholstery, if necessary;
  • Shining windows, both inside and out;
  • Removing any rubbish or personal belongings.

Although it’s tempting to clean yourself, keep in mind that the state of the house determines whether any deductions will be taken out of your deposit. So, it pays to give expert cleaners a shot to prevent unwarranted conflicts.

The Final Inspection

Usually, the landlord or leasing agent will check the flat once you’re ready to return the keys. This is where the tenancy inventory report comes in.

To determine whether any deductions are in order, they’ll compare the present condition of the property to that detailed in the report.

You should pass this inspection with flying colours if you’ve thoroughly cleaned the apartment and fixed any minor damages, like nail holes and scuffed walls.

Attending the final inspection is always a smart move as well. That way, you can address any problems before they’re taken out of your collateral.

What Happens to Your Deposit?

Any amounts you paid at the beginning of your tenancy ought to have been kept in a government-approved protection program.

This guarantees that your money is safe and can only be deducted for valid reasons, including delinquent rent, property damage, or inadequate cleaning.

If no issues are found during the last inspection, you should receive it back in full.

Should the landlord plan to make any deductions, they’re obligated to offer a logical justification. However, you have the right to dispute those claims. The regulated program will serve as a mediator to settle the matter.

The Last Few Steps

Just because you’ve given notice, cleaned the place from top to bottom, and had your final inspection doesn’t mean your work here is done.

You still have to carry out a few final steps. Before you move out, make sure you go through the following last-minute checklist.

Utilities and Services

You have to inform the gas, electricity, and water companies of your move-out date. Also, take final meter readings. This will help ensure that you won’t unknowingly fund the next tenant’s lavish bubble baths.

Don’t forget about services like internet and TV subscriptions, too.

Forwarding Your Address

Giving your landlord and any other important contacts the new address you are moving to is crucial.

Some letters or documents can get delivered to your old house by mistake. Hence, this tip can be a lifesaver in the first few months after your move.

Returning the Keys

Make sure you give back all keys, including those that unlock communal areas, along with any copies you’ve made yourself. Otherwise, you could incur additional charges if the landlord has to change the locks.

Conclusion

Moving out is exciting yet, at the same time, a tad nerve-wracking.

As long as you follow the rules of your agreement, give proper notice, and leave the place spick and span, you’ll be dancing away with your cash in hand.

Just remember, the key to a smooth exit is a friendly note and a thorough clean-up. After all, you want your landlord to remember you fondly, not as “that one who left the place in utter chaos.”

Andrew Mcaffrey
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