Can I break my lease in the NT, and what does it cost?
Yes. Periodic: 14 days' notice. Fixed term: you can owe the landlord's loss, and they must limit it.
Your clock
- 14 days: Periodic notice
- Immediate or later date: Domestic violence
- 7+ days to fix, apply in 14: Landlord breach
The rule in the NT
- Periodic tenancy: 14 days' written notice, no reason.
- Fixed term: the Act sets no break fee. The landlord can claim real loss, but must limit it.
- Exits: domestic violence (approved form), social housing offer (14 days), flooded or unsafe home. Undue hardship or serious landlord breach: apply to NTCAT.
Every tenant must sign, with the address and date, or the notice has no effect.
What to send
I give 14 days' written notice that I will leave [address] on [date]. Signed, [every tenant]. Please return my bond.
Who to call
- Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT), 1800 604 622
- Darwin Community Legal Service, Tenants' Advice, 08 8982 1111
- Consumer Affairs NT (Commissioner of Tenancies), 1800 019 319
Where this comes from
General information, not legal advice on your situation.