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Lease Break Fee Calculator
Estimate the true cost of breaking a lease early: the contractual break fee (typically 2 months' rent), any lost rent during re-letting, and whether your security deposit is at risk.
Most leases = 2x rent
Realistic break cost
$5,250
with landlord mitigation
Contractual break fee
$4,200
Rent loss during vacancy
$2,100
Security deposit at risk
$0
Worst case (no mitigation)
$10,500
How the math works
Lease break fees typically equal 1-3 months' rent, per the lease's liquidated damages clause. Most states require landlords to mitigate damages by re-renting promptly — so tenants don't owe rent for months after the unit is back on the market. Formula: break fee + vacancy loss (prorated share) + any forfeited deposit.
California, New York, Oregon, and many others mandate landlord mitigation. Some military tenants (SCRA) can break leases with 30 days' notice at zero penalty. Job relocations may qualify for employer-paid break fees. Document the break in writing and request final accounting within 30 days.
How to Use
- Enter your current monthly rent.
- Set how many months are remaining on the lease.
- Enter the break fee (usually 2 months rent) from your lease.
- Indicate whether your deposit is at risk and its amount.
- Estimate how long it will take the landlord to re-let the unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the typical lease break fee?
Most residential leases charge 2 months' rent as liquidated damages for early termination. Some luxury or corporate units charge 3 months. Fees under 1 month are rare.
Do I owe all remaining rent if I break?
Usually no. Most states require landlord mitigation — the landlord must try to re-rent promptly. You owe rent only until a new tenant is placed, minus a break fee.
Is SCRA (military) break fee-free?
Yes. Servicemembers Civil Relief Act allows active-duty military to terminate leases with 30 days' notice after receiving orders, with no break fee. Paperwork is required.
Can I negotiate a lower break fee?
Often yes, especially if the rental market is tight. Offer to find a replacement tenant, pay a lump sum equal to 1 month, or give 60+ days notice. Landlords often prefer cash and certainty.
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