Whether you’re ending a fixed-term lease agreement or a month-to-month tenancy, you generally need to follow specific guidelines when issuing a 30-day notice. Knowing precisely when and how to issue this notice, plus ensuring it’s clear and concise, is critical. 

This guide shares the purpose and essential steps for a 30-day notice, with practical tips and a free template to simplify the process. Getting it right can help prevent legal headaches and ensure a smooth and successful transition for you and your tenant.

What is a 30-day notice to the tenant?

A 30-day notice is a legal document sent to the tenant informing them that they need to vacate the premises within 30 days. This requirement should be included in your lease with the tenant.

Issuing this written notice to your tenant documents that you are ending the lease in compliance with local landlord-tenant laws. It helps avoid misunderstandings and sets a specific date for the tenant to vacate, hopefully encouraging a smoother transition for both parties.

Unlike eviction or pay-or-quit notices, sending a 30-day notice typically isn’t confrontational and doesn’t involve a court process. You may be able to use it when not renewing a lease, ending month-to-month rental agreements, or selling the property.

Free 30-day notice template download

If you’re looking for an easy way to send a 30-day notice to your tenant, use our customizable template to simplify the process. Follow the instructions below to tailor the template to your specific needs:

1. Download the template: Click the link below and download the customizable 30-day notice template.
2. Fill in your information: Replace any placeholder text with your details, including your name, address, email, and phone number.
3. Specify tenant information: Enter the tenant’s name and address.
4. Set the termination date: Calculate 30 days from the date you plan to send the notice to determine the termination date. Insert this date in the appropriate section.
5. Schedule the final inspection: Choose a date for the final inspection and include it in the notice. That allows for an easier move-out and helps ensure the rental property is returned in good condition.
6. Provide clear instructions: Specify the steps the tenant needs to take, such as scheduling a move-out inspection, returning the keys, and leaving the residence clean and undamaged.
7. Review and sign: Double-check all the information for accuracy. Then, sign the notice to make it valid and official.
8. Keep a copy: Retain a copy of the signed notice for your records, which can be helpful if any disputes or legal matters arise.

Click here to download the customizable 30-day notice template

How to write a 30-day notice

Start with the date of the notice, which marks the beginning of the 30-day countdown. Be sure to factor in the delivery time of the notice so that your tenant has a full 30 days from the expected date of receipt.

Next, include the full name of your tenant(s) and their address. This information should match the rental agreement and be accurate for legal purposes.

State the reason for the notice clearly and concisely. If you’re not renewing their lease, specify that their current tenancy ends on a specific date. For month-to-month leases, explain that you are terminating their tenancy and give the move-out date.

Also, mention whether the tenant needs to resolve any outstanding fees or other issues before vacating, such as unpaid rent or damage to the premises.

Include a statement about returning their security deposit, if applicable, and communicate any other important details regarding the move-out process.

Finally, end with your contact information for any questions or concerns your tenant may have. Be sure to add your signature and date the notice.

When and how to use a 30-day notice

You use a 30-day notice to communicate that a tenancy will be terminated at the end of a fixed lease term or as a way to end a month-to-month tenancy. In these scenarios, proper notice acts as an official communication. It can help you and the tenant prepare for next steps while offering some protection for your rights as a landlord. 

Always consider local landlord-tenant laws when sending a 30-day notice. These laws dictate how much notice you must provide and they vary greatly across the country. Some areas may require more than 30 days, so do your research first to help avoid legal complications.

Speaking with your tenant before sending a 30-day notice can also be beneficial. If you like, you can discuss your reasons for ending the tenancy and address any concerns they may have. Having a direct conversation before sending the notice is a professional courtesy and can reduce stress and uncertainty for both parties.

Finally, be aware that serving a 30-day notice is sometimes just the beginning of the move-out process. You can also provide your tenant with clear instructions and a move-out checklist, which details processes for cleaning, returning keys, and receiving the security deposit refund.

When not to use a 30-day notice

There are situations when a 30-day notice may not be your best option.

For instance, non-payment of rent usually requires a pay-or-quit notice, followed by an eviction notice. When a tenant breaches their lease terms (e.g., excessive noise or causing property damage), you may want to use a cure-or-quit notice instead.

If the rental property becomes uninhabitable, landlords typically must address the outstanding issues promptly. That may include making necessary repairs, offering the tenant alternative housing, and/or terminating the lease immediately.

Always check your local laws for specific requirements. We also highly recommend consulting with a real estate lawyer. Each municipality may have different rules regarding notice periods and eviction processes.

Best practices for sending a 30-day notice

To make the process of sending a 30-day notice more transparent, accurate, and easy to implement, here are a few best practices to follow: 

• Give sufficient notice: Deliver the notice well in advance of the termination date so your tenant has sufficient time to find alternative housing.
• Use clear language: Write the notice in straightforward, unambiguous terms to avoid confusion. Being clear helps your tenant understand your expectations and timelines, reducing potential disputes later.
• Document everything: Keep a copy of each notice you send and records of any correspondence like certified mail receipts. This documentation can help protect you if any legal issues arise or if you need to prove the notice was delivered.
• Communicate personally: When possible, consider discussing the notice with your tenant in person or on the phone. A personal explanation can mitigate misunderstandings and help maintain a respectful relationship.
• Follow local regulations: Research local landlord-tenant laws to help ensure you comply with notice requirements. Doing so minimizes the risk of your notice being invalidated due to incorrect procedures.
• Be professional and respectful: Approach the situation thoughtfully, even if the circumstances are difficult. A respectful tone can make giving proper notice less stressful and ease any tension between you and the tenant.
• Follow up: If there are any outstanding issues, follow up with your tenant to resolve them before the intended move-out date. That can prevent any potential disputes or delays in returning their security deposit.
• Act on non-compliance: If the tenant does not comply with the notice, you may have to take additional legal action. Consult a lawyer or seek guidance from your local housing authority if necessary.

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