How to Transfer a Lease to a New Tenant in Alaska

Transferring, or assigning, your lease to a new tenant can be a good option if you need to leave your rental before your lease ends. In Alaska, there are specific laws and steps to follow for assigning your lease. This guide explains the basics for renters, the forms you need, and your rights, according to Alaska law.

Understanding Lease Transfers in Alaska

When you transfer your lease, you are assigning your rental agreement—your rights and responsibilities as a tenant—to someone else. The person taking over is called the “new tenant” or “assignee.” Assignment is not the same as subletting, where you remain responsible for the lease. Assignment means the new tenant takes your place and you are usually released from responsibility, if your landlord agrees.

Can You Assign Your Lease in Alaska?

• The Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act does not guarantee a tenant’s right to assign a lease. Always check your specific lease agreement: most leases require landlord approval for assignment.
• Landlords may refuse the transfer, but generally cannot do so unreasonably if the lease allows assignment.

If your lease prohibits assignment, you usually cannot transfer your lease unless your landlord makes an exception in writing.

Step-by-Step: How to Transfer a Lease in Alaska

• Review Your Lease: Check for clauses about "assignment" or "transfer."
• Request Landlord Consent: Put your request to transfer in writing. Include information about the proposed new tenant.
• Use the Alaska Assignment of Lease Form: If your landlord agrees, you and the new tenant will sign an Assignment of Lease Agreement. There is no official state-provided form, but a template can often be requested from your landlord or obtained from the Alaska Court System for reference.
  
  Example: If you accept a job in another city and need to move, you find a reliable replacement tenant, submit a written request to your landlord, and—if approved—both you and the new tenant sign the assignment form. The landlord will usually approve after a rental application and background check.
• Complete Move-Out Procedures: Arrange for inspection, key return, and address forwarding as required by your original lease.

We recommend checking directly with your landlord and reviewing the Alaska Department of Law, Consumer Protection Unit – Landlord & Tenant Resources for guidance.

Official Alaska Forms and Where to Find Them

• Assignment of Lease Agreement (Alaska): While Alaska does not have a required government-issued lease assignment form, you may ask your landlord if they have a template they prefer. See the Alaska Civil Form CIV-725 (Notice to Quit) for reference on official tenant-landlord forms.
• Landlord Consent to Assignment: Written permission from your landlord—often a signed letter or addendum.
• Rental Application: The new tenant may be required to complete your landlord’s standard rental application to verify eligibility.

Which Alaska Tribunal Handles Lease Disputes?

If conflict arises about lease transfer or your rights, the Alaska Court System (District Court, Small Claims Division) handles residential tenancy matters, including lease assignment disputes. For help, visit the Alaska Self-Help Housing Court Resources.

What Does Alaska Law Say?

Refer to the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03) for your rights and responsibilities regarding assignments and landlord approval requirements.¹

FAQ: Alaska Lease Transfer & Assignment

1. Can my landlord refuse my lease transfer in Alaska?
   Landlords in Alaska can refuse assignment if your lease prohibits it or if they have reasonable grounds. If your lease allows assignment, refusal must not be arbitrary.
2. Does lease assignment release me from all liability?
   If your landlord signs off on the assignment, you are usually released from responsibility, but confirm in writing and review your lease to ensure no liability remains.
3. What if my lease has no mention of assignment?
   If the lease is silent, you must obtain written consent from your landlord. Without it, assignment is not guaranteed by law in Alaska.
4. Are there official Alaska forms for lease transfers?
   Alaska does not provide a statewide, official lease assignment form. Use a written agreement or obtain a template from your landlord or local legal aid service.
5. How do I challenge a denied lease assignment?
   You may file a complaint or legal dispute through the Alaska District Court. Refer to Alaska Housing Court Self-Help Resources for steps.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Alaska Renters

• Lease transfers (assignments) require landlord approval in most cases.
• Always check your lease and communicate in writing for records.
• You may be released from liability after assignment, but verify details with your landlord.

Assignment is a helpful tool but must be done carefully to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alaska Department of Law, Landlord & Tenant Resources — Information and complaint forms
• Alaska Court System: Housing Self-Help — Guidance on housing disputes and court procedures
• Alaska Legal Services Corporation — Free legal aid for eligible renters
• Phone: Alaska Attorney General Consumer Protection Hotline: 1-888-576-2529

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1. Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03)

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