When a tenant is breaking a lease, it can cause stress and confusion. But as the landlord, you’re not powerless. You have rights, and they’re protected under Missouri landlord-tenant law, Kansas law, and even some federal laws. This blog will explain what you can do when a tenant breaks their rental lease or lease agreement early.
Let’s break down your rights and what steps you can take to protect your rental property.
You Have the Right to Enforce the Lease Agreement
Your lease agreement is a legal document that lists the lease term, rent payments, and rules for the rental unit. If your tenant tries to break the lease without a valid reason, such as starting active military duty, domestic violence, or job relocation, you have the right to hold them to the terms.
Without legal justification, the tenant may be responsible for paying the remaining rent under the fixed-term lease.
You Can Require Proper Written Notice
You have the right to request written notice when a tenant breaks the lease. Missouri tenants and Kansas City tenants can’t simply move out and expect no consequences. Failure to follow the lease termination process could result in unpaid rent.
A well-drafted early lease termination clause in your rental lease helps avoid misunderstandings and establishes clear guidelines for ending the lease early.
You’re Entitled to Financial Compensation for Remaining Rent
When a tenant leaves before the lease expires, they could be responsible for the entire lease term, unless they have legal justification. As the landlord, you can request payment for outstanding rent, re-listing costs, and even damages caused by the lease's non-compliance.
Your financial responsibility is to protect your income, and the tenant’s responsibility is to honor the rental agreements they signed.
You Must Re-Rent, But Only to Qualified and Reliable Tenants
Under Missouri landlord-tenant law, you must attempt to re-rent the unit. However, you only need to make reasonable efforts to find a new tenant. You are not required to accept anyone who applies. It’s important to continue screening for reliable replacement tenants.
An experienced property management company can help speed up this process and ensure compliance with landlord-tenant regulations.
You Can Withhold the Security Deposit Legally
If the tenant caused damage or failed to pay rent, you have the right to keep part or all of the tenant’s security deposit. Be sure to follow Missouri state law and provide a detailed list of deductions.
Holding the security deposit helps cover potential losses from early termination or needed property repairs.
You May Pursue Legal Action for Lease Violations
When a tenant refuses to pay or accuses you of landlord harassment, you can take the matter to small claims court. This process allows you to resolve legal disputes such as lease violations, missed rent, or disagreements about lease obligations.
You can also seek guidance from legal resources like Kansas Legal Services to better understand your rights under the Fair Housing Act, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, and other laws.
Stay in Control When Tenants Break the Rules
As a landlord, understanding your rights is crucial when a tenant decides to break a lease in Kansas City. By following landlord-tenant law, you can enforce your lease agreement, recover unpaid rent, and protect your rental property. Knowing the proper steps to take—whether it's requiring proper notice, seeking financial compensation, or pursuing legal grounds—is essential for maintaining control.
At Grit Property Group, we understand the importance of keeping your rental properties well-managed and your investments secure. Our experienced team ensures you stay informed, act quickly, and maintain control throughout the lease termination procedure.
Call Grit Property Group today to learn how our proactive property management services can help you navigate lease issues with ease and grow your investment.
