In usual circumstances, both the landlord and the tenant cannot terminate the tenancy before its expiration unless either of them has breached the vital terms of the agreement (e.g. the tenant fails to pay rent or the landlord illegally re-enters the property). However, early termination may be possible with the existence of a valid break clause (See more in Properties Arrangements > Landlord and tenant > Renewal matters .

1. I have let my property to a tenant on a three year term. There are still more than 2 years remaining in the term. However, I note that the rental value of neighbouring properties has risen significantly. Can I terminate the tenancy with the existing tenant and let the property out for a better rent?

A party to a contract is bound by the terms of that contract. Therefore, unless a tenancy document contains a break clause that allows the landlord to terminate the tenancy before the expiry of its term, or there is mutual agreement for an early termination, the landlord is bound by the tenancy document and cannot unilaterally terminate the tenancy with the existing tenant.

2. I have rented a property on a three year term. There are still more than 2 years remaining in the term. However, I note that the rental value of neighbouring properties has dropped significantly. Can I terminate the tenancy with the landlord so that I can get a comparable property for a lower rent?

A party to a contract is bound by the terms of the contract. Therefore, unless a tenancy document contains a break clause that allows the tenant to terminate the tenancy before the expiry of its term, or there is mutual agreement for an early termination, the tenant is bound by the tenancy document and cannot unilaterally terminate the tenancy with the landlord.

A “break clause” from the tenant’s perspective may look like this (for reference only):

Notwithstanding anything herein contained, it is hereby agreed and declared that if at any time after the expiration of one year from the commencement of the Term, the Tenant shall be desirous of terminating this Agreement, then the Tenant shall have the right to terminate it by giving not less than two months prior written notice to the Landlord, provided that the notice is received by the Landlord at least two months prior to the date of termination stated therein, or by paying to the Landlord two months rent in lieu of such notice, provided always that the operation of this clause is without prejudice to the rights and remedies of either party against the other in respect of any antecedent claims or breach of the agreements, stipulations, terms and conditions herein contained.

If the tenancy document does not contain a break clause, then neither the landlord nor tenant can unilaterally terminate the tenancy. The only option open to a tenant who wants to end a tenancy before the expiry of the agreed term is then to offer to the landlord to surrender the tenancy. Subject to negotiation between the parties, the tenant must usually pay a sum in exchange for the landlord’s acceptance of the surrender.