Can I break my lease if my landlord won’t make repairs?

If repairs impact health or safety and your landlord does not act after proper notice, Oregon law may allow you to terminate. Provide written notice and keep records.

What proof do I need to break a lease because of domestic violence?

You must complete the required notice and supply supporting documents like a police report or restraining order.

Does getting a new job in another city count as a legal reason?

No. Oregon law does not cover employment changes, so you may need to negotiate with your landlord or pay fees.

How much notice is required to break a lease for a legal reason?

Notice requirements vary: usually 14 days for domestic violence, 30 days for military duty, or as specified under law for other reasons.

Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in Oregon?

Local county circuit courts, with resources and guidance from Oregon Housing and Community Services.

Legal Reasons to Break a Lease in Oregon Without Penalty

Moving Out & Ending a Lease Oregon published: June 21, 2025

If you rent in Oregon but need to leave before your lease ends, understanding when you can break a lease without penalty is crucial. Oregon laws provide specific legal reasons for ending a rental agreement early. This guide explains your rights, official forms, and steps you can take if you’re considering moving out before your lease term is up.

When Can You Legally Break a Lease Without Penalty in Oregon?

Oregon’s laws protect renters in certain situations where breaking your lease won’t mean paying fees or losing your security deposit. Here are the main legal reasons:

Uninhabitable conditions: If the rental is unsafe or violates health and safety codes, and your landlord isn’t fixing the problem in a reasonable time frame^[1].
Landlord harassment or violation of privacy: For example, entering your unit illegally or shutting off essential services.
Domestic violence: Survivors have a special right to terminate a lease early with proper notice and documentation^[2].
Active military duty: Under federal law (the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act), service members called to active duty may break a lease penalty-free.

Each reason requires proper notice and, in some cases, official forms to protect your rights.

The Role of Oregon’s Residential Tenancy Law and Tribunal

Oregon’s main tenancy law is the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. If you have a dispute, it can be resolved at your local county circuit court or through small claims court. The main government resource for renters and landlords is the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) – Renters Resources.

Notice Requirements and Official Forms

To break your lease for a lawful reason, you almost always need to give your landlord written notice. Here are the common forms and when to use them:

Tenant’s Notice of Termination Under Domestic Violence Protections (ORS 90.453)
- When to use: If you or an immediate family member are a victim of domestic violence, you can end your lease with 14 days’ written notice.
- How to use: Fill out the notice—including documentation proof (such as a restraining order or police report)—and deliver it to your landlord.
  Download the official Tenant’s Notice of Termination form (PDF)
Military Lease Termination Notice (under federal law)
- When to use: If you are called to active duty.
- How to use: Give your landlord written notice with your deployment orders attached. There is no specific Oregon form, but you must give at least 30 days’ notice.
- Learn more about SCRA protections here
Notice of Intent to Withhold Rent or Terminate for Uninhabitable Conditions (ORS 90.360)
- When to use: If the landlord hasn’t repaired health or safety violations after being given an opportunity to fix them.
- How to use: Send written notice listing problems, what needs fixing, and a deadline. If not fixed, you can terminate the lease. There is no mandated form, but sample templates are available on the official OHCS website.

Be sure to keep copies and delivery proof of all notices.

Step-by-Step: How to Break Your Lease Legally in Oregon

If you have a valid legal reason, follow these steps to protect yourself:

Carefully review your rental agreement.
Document your reason (photos, written records, copies of reports, etc.).
Fill out the relevant notice or form, if applicable.
Deliver written notice to your landlord according to state rules (in person or via certified mail).
Keep copies of everything.
If the landlord disputes your reason, contact Oregon Housing and Community Services or take the dispute to small claims court.

Key tip: The safest way to break your lease without penalty is to follow Oregon’s formal notice requirements and save a paper trail.

Possible Penalties for Unlawful Lease Termination

If you break your lease for a reason not protected by law, your landlord may charge early termination fees, keep the security deposit, or sue for unpaid rent. It’s important to understand—and document—why you are leaving.

FAQ: Breaking a Lease in Oregon Without Penalty

Can I break my lease if my landlord won’t make repairs?
If repairs concern your health or safety and the landlord won’t fix them after proper notice, you may have the right to terminate under Oregon law. Always provide written notice first and document the problems.
What proof do I need to break a lease because of domestic violence?
You’ll need to complete the notice form and provide supporting documents, such as a police report, restraining order, or statement from a qualified third party.
Does getting a new job in another city count as a legal reason?
No. Employment changes are not protected under Oregon law, so you may have to negotiate with your landlord or pay fees.
How much notice must I give if I break my lease for a legal reason?
This depends on the reason—usually 14 days for domestic violence, 30 days for military, or as required for uninhabitable conditions. See the relevant forms and statutes for details.
Who handles renter-landlord disputes in Oregon?
Your local county circuit court is the authority to resolve disputes, and helpful guidance is available from Oregon Housing and Community Services.

Key Takeaways

Oregon law offers several protections allowing renters to break a lease without penalty for specific reasons—like domestic violence, unsafe living conditions, or military duty.
Always give proper written notice and include documentation to support your case.
Contact official state resources for advice if you’re unsure about your rights or next steps.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Oregon Housing and Community Services – Renters Resources
Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord/Tenant Information
For legal aid and advocacy, visit OregonLawHelp.org
Contact your local county housing office for assistance with notices, disputes, and forms.