If you’re planning to move out of your apartment, you’ll need to give your landlord advance notice. Not only does this give you time to plan ahead, but it also gives them time to find their next resident and tie up any loose ends from your lease. 

Many landlords require that residents provide a 60-day notice before moving out of an apartment and require that this notice be in writing. Below, we outline the process for giving a 60-day notice. 

How does a 60-day notice work? 

If you have a 60-day notice provision in your lease, you must inform your landlord at least 60 days before your lease ends if you plan to move out. This usually means that if your landlord does not want to renew your lease at the end of the term, they will inform you at least 60 days in advance. 

A 60-day notice does not mean that you can move out at any time. The notice specifically applies to the end of your lease. Move-out procedures can vary among property management companies, so you’ll want to review your lease carefully. 

Why have a 60-day notice?

A 60-day notice provides a written record that the resident will be moving. This ensures there is no confusion during the move-out process and that you can begin your move-out procedures. 

A 60-day move-out notice also gives the landlord plenty of time to prepare for the next resident. The landlord can schedule contractors for things like cleaning and repainting. If more intensive repairs or remodels are necessary, 60 days gives the landlord enough time to order supplies and plan appropriately. 

Additionally, a 60-day notice provides ample time to find a new tenant for the apartment. It can take time to market, screen, and approve tenants to move in. 

What is included in a 60-day notice? 

A 60-day lease notice should always be submitted in writing. At Southern Management, we require our residents provide their move-out date, new address and reliable contact information. 

We also ask for the reason our residents are moving and feedback or suggestions. Finally, residents must sign the bottom of their 60-day notice in order for it to be effectively documented.

Do residents have to give a 60-day notice? 

This depends entirely on what’s specified in your lease. Most rental properties require a 60-day notice, but some require more or less. If you’re unsure of whether or not you need to give notice, review your lease and check with your landlord. 

If you are required to provide a 60-day notice and do not comply, your landlord may charge fees or other penalties. It is also a measure of common courtesy to give a heads-up if you plan on moving, even if there is not a 60-day notice provision in your lease. 

Find Your Next Home with Southern Management

At Southern Management, we require our residents to provide a 60-day notice. If you’re looking for a new place to live in the Washington, D.C. or Baltimore metro areas, we’re happy to talk through any lease concerns during your apartment-hunting process. Get in touch with us today or explore our apartment communities.