BREAKING A LEASE

I would like to break my lease because I would like to move in
with a friend so I can save money to return to school in the
fall. I still have about 6 months left on my lease. What can I
do?

Thanks, eddie

Dear Eddie,

The first thing to do is read your lease carefully. Some leases
have what is called a “lease breaking clause” which will tell
you exactly what to do as well as how much it will cost you.
There is usually a fee associated with it. But there are also
those leases which do not give you an out. You must remember
that a lease is a legally binding contract to which you are
obligated. Now for the good news - if you should break the lease
and move out, your landlord is obligated to mitigate any
damages. That means he must attempt to re-rent your apartment.
To do so he may also charge you with any marketing expenses
associated with the releasing of your apartment along with any
other fees. If for some reason market conditions prevent him
from finding a qualified renter to move in right away, you will
be held responsible for the rent until an appropriate tenant is
found to take your place.

There will also be other fees associated with moving in another
renter. In the apartment world it is called a “turn-over fee”.
These fees are connected with preparing the unit for a new
renter. Did the landlord have to send in a painter and/or
cleaner in order to re-rent your apartment? Charges such as
these can also be charged to you as well.

If you feel that your landlord did not treat you fairly, contact
a lawyer who has experience in landlord-tenant law. You may want
to explore your options.