Arizona Move-Out Notice Periods: What Renters Need to Know

Ending your lease in Arizona? Knowing the proper notice period to move out is key to a smooth transition and protecting your rights as a renter. Arizona law establishes specific timeframes and requirements to ensure clear communication between landlords and tenants. Below, we’ll cover how much notice you must give, which forms to use, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Notice Periods for Moving Out: Arizona Law Overview

Your required move-out notice period depends on your type of rental agreement. Arizona’s tenant-landlord rules are set out under the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1] Here are the main categories:

• Month-to-Month Rental: You must give at least 30 days’ written notice before the date your next rent payment is due.^[2]
• Week-to-Week Rental: You must give at least 10 days’ written notice before the termination date.^[2]
• Fixed-Term Lease (e.g., 12 months): Usually, the lease ends on the set expiration date. If you stay past this date without renewing, you become a month-to-month tenant by default—then you must give 30 days’ written notice to move out.

It’s important to check your individual lease for any clauses that may specify a longer notice period than the legal minimum.

How to Deliver Move-Out Notice Properly

Arizona law requires that your notice to terminate a rental agreement be written. You can deliver it to your landlord in person, by certified mail, or as allowed in your lease agreement.

• Keep a copy of your notice for your records.
• Certified mail gives you proof the landlord received the notice.
• Check your lease for any specific delivery requirements (e.g., email, address).

Arizona Move-Out Notice Form

The state does not provide an official form, but your written notice should clearly state:

• Your name and address
• The address of the rental property
• The intended move-out (lease termination) date
• Your signature and date

Sample Language:
“Dear [Landlord Name], I am providing 30 days’ notice to terminate my month-to-month tenancy at [property address], with my move-out date on [date]. Sincerely, [Your Name].”

An example Arizona template is available from the Arizona Department of Housing’s Help for Renters page. Always keep copies and send by a trackable method.

The Role of the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

All renter and landlord rights regarding lease termination, notice periods, and deposits are covered in the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 10).^[1] This Act is enforced statewide and sets out the rules for proper notice and security deposit returns.

Who Oversees Rental Issues in Arizona?

The Arizona Justice Courts are responsible for handling residential tenancy disputes, including those about move-out notice and deposit return. If disagreements arise, both landlords and renters can file a claim with the relevant local Justice Court.

Action Steps: Giving Proper Notice to Move Out in Arizona

• Review your lease for any special terms about ending your rental.
• Decide on your intended move-out date, and count back the required notice period (30 days for month-to-month, 10 days for week-to-week).
• Write a clear, dated, and signed notice letter with all the necessary details.
• Deliver it to your landlord by certified mail, personal delivery, or as required by your lease.
• Keep a copy of your notice and proof of delivery in your records.

Never rely on just verbal notice—always give your move-out notice in writing.

FAQs: Arizona Move-Out Notice Periods

1. How much notice does a tenant have to give to move out in Arizona?
   Usually, tenants on month-to-month leases must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before moving out. For week-to-week rentals, it’s 10 days’ notice.
2. Can a landlord require more notice than the Arizona law states?
   A lease agreement may require a longer notice period than the legal minimum, but never less. Always check your signed lease for any special terms.
3. What if I move out without giving proper notice?
   If you leave without the required notice, your landlord may charge you for rent covering the notice period or take deductions from your deposit.
4. Is there an official form for Arizona move-out notices?
   No state-mandated form exists, but your notice must be in writing and clearly state the intended move-out date.
5. Where do I go if there is a dispute over move-out notice or deposit return?
   You can file a claim at your local Arizona Justice Court, which handles residential tenancy issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arizona Department of Housing: Help for Renters – Guidance on notices, deposits, and tenant rights.
• Find Your Arizona Justice Court – Locate your local tribunal for tenancy disputes.
• Arizona Attorney General: Landlord & Tenant Rights – Official consumer protection advice on rental law.

---

1. Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 10)
2. A.R.S. § 33-1375: Termination of Tenancy by Tenant or Landlord

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations