A request to leave early or a set of keys handed over does not always settle the legal ending. Use an agreement appropriate to the country's tenancy or contract rules.
Establish what is requested
- Ask whether the tenant seeks a shorter notice period, an agreed surrender, a replacement or temporary absence.
- Check all relevant joint parties and anyone claiming continuing rights.
- Distinguish keys held for inspection or safekeeping from keys accepted as part of a lawful ending.
Document the agreement
- State the end date, possession arrangements and rent calculation.
- Check any proposed charge against the country's law and actual permitted basis.
- Record existing arrears and deposit treatment without unclear waivers.
Complete handover
- Record condition, meter readings and all keys or access devices.
- Deal with belongings and forwarding contact details through a lawful process.
- Relet only when the legal possession position is established.
Example: keys are left with the agent
A fictional tenant drops keys at an agent's office without a clear agreement. Establish the purpose and tenancy position before advertising immediate availability. The physical keys alone do not answer every legal question.
What to do
- Confirm the intended ending and obtain advice where authority or rights are unclear.
- Record the agreed date and financial treatment.
- Complete checkout, keys and deposit steps separately.
Evidence to keep
- Ending agreement, notices and authority of the people involved.
- Handover record, final account and deposit outcome.
Sources and guidance
- Assured periodic tenancies: landlord guideUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Standard occupation contracts: guidance on the termsWelsh Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Being a private landlordScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Tenant Fees Act: current statutory guidanceUK Government · checked 20 October 2026