Leaving a lease to be safe
You can leave a lease early when staying isn't safe
Many places let a tenant end a lease early because of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, with the right notice and papers.
I help you end the lease without owing months of rent, keep the reasons as private as the law allows, protect your deposit, and, if you'd rather stay, ask to change the locks or take the other person off the lease.
We talk when it's safe for you to talk. If you need a different number, an email only, or no voicemail, tell me and that's how I'll reach you.
Staying safe on this site
If someone might see what you read
The Quick exit button at the top of every page opens a weather site at once. It doesn't erase your history, so:
Use a private window
Or a phone, computer or library terminal the other person can't reach.
Tell me how to reach you
A safe number, a time to call, or email only. Nothing goes to a shared address unless you say so.
If you're in danger now
Call 911. For support any time, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is at 1-800-799-7233.
Questions
Questions about leaving early
Will my landlord have to know why I'm leaving?
Usually the landlord sees a notice and, depending on the law where you live, a supporting document such as a protective order or a statement from a qualified third party. The landlord is generally expected to keep it private. I'll tell you exactly what they would see before anything is sent.
Do I need a restraining order first?
Not always. In many places other documents can support the notice. We'll look at what you have and what's quickest and safest to get.
What about the other person's name on the lease?
Depending on the situation, there can be ways to change the locks, end their tenancy, or let you stay while they go. We'll talk through which is safest for you.
When it's safe, reach out
Use the form and say how to contact you, or call from a phone that's yours.