How to break a lease legally

Here are your legal rights when learning how to break a lease legally in Texas while keeping the hassle and fees to a minimum.

• Military duty: If someone renting needs to end their agreement due to military duty, the Service Members Civil Relief Act safeguards them from any penalties. This only applies to active military personnel and National Guard members who live in Texas.
• The apartment is untenable: If the unit doesn’t have necessary living conditions, like flowing water, functioning smoke detectors, or correct plumbing and electric systems, it’s legal for you to end the lease early in Texas.
• Privacy violation: It is important that landlords respect tenant privacy, and tenants may not enter the property without first giving notice. Texas law requires them to provide written notice but does not specify the amount. To avoid any problems, it is best to include notice details in the lease.
• Violence: In case of facing any sort of abuse (sexual abuse, domestic violence, stalking), you might be able to end the lease early. Landlords might ask for documents like a protective order to confirm the situation.
• Death of a tenant: If a renter living alone passes away, someone named in their will can end the lease early. This individual must provide a written letter of notice to the property owner per Section 92.0162, detailed within the Texas Property Code.

Although canceling a rent contract can be tough, knowing how to break a lease legally could simplify this procedure. If you understand your rights and follow the correct procedures, you can lessen stress and avoid additional expenses.