I'm planning to break my lease due to financial issues. I live in Washington State. I am wondering what the guidelines for this are. I have no choice to break the lease. What sort of notice do I need to give? Any additional things I need to do? I've lived there for a year and a half, and the lease is supposed to be up on March 31st.

Hello Momma:

There's no way to legally break your lease. There IS, however, a GOOD way, where you can leave with your head held high, and no burnt bridges.

You are, of course, responsible for the lease until the landlord re-rents the unit. We're only talking about a couple months here, so you SHOULD be able to work out something... I would sure try.

The first thing is open and honest communication with your landlord. I'd cover my tracks, though, and do ALL your communications regarding this situation, by MAIL and/or telephone followed up by MAIL to confirm what was said.

If you treat him right during this difficult time, maybe he'll treat you right.

excon

Thank you, that was the plan.

Do you know how much of a notice I must give in Washington?

Breaking a lease in WA is 20 days from move out. I had to pay one month's rent as the break lease fee. It was easier than I had expected.