Non-Renewal Lease Letter Templates That Protect Your Rights in 2025
When a lease is coming to an end, both landlords and tenants face a critical decision—should the lease be renewed or terminated? If either party decides not to renew, delivering a non-renewal lease letter is not just a courtesy—it’s often a legal necessity.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about non-renewal lease letters in 2025: when to send them, what to include, sample templates for landlords and tenants, and tips to stay compliant with state laws. Whether you’re a property owner or a renter, this post will help you handle non-renewals smoothly and professionally.
What Is a Non-Renewal Lease Letter?
A non-renewal lease letter (also known as a lease termination notice or notice of non-renewal) is a formal, written notification that a lease agreement will not be renewed after its current term expires.
Unlike an eviction notice, this letter does not allege any wrongdoing—it simply states that the lease won’t continue. It applies whether you’re a landlord deciding not to renew a tenant’s lease or a tenant choosing to vacate.
Common Reasons for Non-Renewal:
For Landlords:
- Planning to sell the property
- Major renovations needed
- Wanting to raise rent for future tenants
- Unsatisfactory tenant behavior (without grounds for eviction)
- Converting the property to personal use
For Tenants:
- Moving to a new city or job
- Unsatisfactory living conditions
- Rent increases they can’t afford
- Desire for a different type of housing
Is a Non-Renewal Lease Letter Legally Required?
In most states, yes—especially for fixed-term leases (e.g., 12 months). Landlords and tenants are generally required to give proper notice, often 30 to 60 days before the lease ends. Not doing so can result in legal disputes or penalties.
State Notice Requirements (Examples):
- California: 30 days (month-to-month) or 60 days (if tenant has lived there 1+ years)
- Texas: 30 days
- New York: 30–90 days, depending on how long the tenant has occupied the unit
- Florida: 15 days (month-to-month)
- Ohio: 30 days for month-to-month leases
Always consult your local landlord-tenant laws.
Key Elements to Include in a Non-Renewal lease Letter
Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, your lease non-renewal letter should contain these components:
- Date of the letter
- Full name and address of both parties
- Property address
- Lease start and end date
- Clear statement of non-renewal
- Move-out date (for tenants)
- Instructions for next steps (e.g., security deposit, key return)
- Contact information
- Signature
A polite, professional tone is also essential—even if your relationship was difficult.
Landlord Non-Renewal Lease Letter Template
Template: Lease Non-Renewal Letter from Landlord to Tenant
Download Lease Non-Renewal Letter (.docx)
Template: Lease Non-Renewal Letter from Tenant to Landlord
Download Lease Non-Renewal Letter (From Tenant to Landlord)
Tips for Landlords Sending a Non-Renewal Notice
- Be Professional, Not Personal
Even if you’re ending the lease due to difficult behavior, remain factual and polite. - Document Everything
Send the letter via certified mail or hand-deliver it with a signed receipt. Keep a copy for your records. - Give Adequate Time
Err on the side of more notice—especially if you’re in a state with longer legal notice periods. - Avoid Discrimination
You cannot refuse to renew a lease based on race, religion, disability, family status, etc., under the Fair Housing Act. - Inspect Promptly and Fairly
Return the security deposit within the legal time limit and with a clear breakdown of any deductions.
Tips for Tenants Writing a Non-Renewal Letter
- Plan Ahead
Give your landlord enough time to find a new tenant and avoid overlapping rent costs. - Leave the Property Clean
This helps ensure your deposit is returned and avoids disputes. - Document the Condition
Take photos of the property before leaving to protect yourself from unfair charges. - Follow Up
Check in about the inspection and the security deposit if you don’t hear back within a reasonable time.
When a Non-Renewal Letter Might Not Be Enough
In some cases, simply sending a non-renewal letter won’t suffice:
- If the lease auto-renews without written objection.
- If you’re ending a lease early, you’ll need to issue an early termination letter instead.
- If you’re trying to evict, a non-renewal letter isn’t a substitute for formal eviction proceedings based on non-payment or lease violations.
Always double-check your lease terms and local laws.
Final Thoughts: Communicate Clearly, Stay Legal
A lease’s end doesn’t have to mean conflict or confusion. Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, handling non-renewal professionally and legally helps avoid disputes and maintains a positive rental history.
Always use a written letter, follow the lease terms and local laws, and keep copies for your records. The templates provided above can be customized to suit your specific situation, giving both parties clarity and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if I don’t send a non-renewal letter?
You may face automatic renewal of the lease or legal issues around ending the tenancy improperly.
2. Can a landlord refuse to renew a lease without a reason?
In most states, yes—as long as it’s not discriminatory or retaliatory and proper notice is given.
3. How early should I send a non-renewal letter?
Typically 30 to 60 days before the lease ends, depending on your lease agreement and state law.
4. Can a tenant challenge a non-renewal?
Not usually, unless it’s based on discrimination or in retaliation for legal tenant actions (e.g., reporting code violations).
5. Is email acceptable for sending non-renewal notices?
Only if your lease permits it and your state recognizes electronic communication as valid legal notice.
