Oregon Notice Periods for Renters Moving Out

If you're renting a place in Oregon and planning to move out, it's important to know exactly how much notice you must give your landlord—and the official steps to ensure your move goes smoothly. Understanding your obligations under Oregon law can help you recover your security deposit and avoid unintended lease extensions or penalties.

How Much Notice Must You Give to Move Out in Oregon?

The amount of notice you need to give depends on the type of rental agreement you have. Giving proper notice in writing is essential to avoid extra rent charges and disputes.

Month-to-Month Rental Agreements

• Standard notice period: At least 30 days in writing before your intended move-out date.
• Delivery method: Notice can be delivered in person or mailed to the landlord. If mailed, add 3 more days, making it 33 days total^[1].

Example: If you plan to move out on the last day of June, you must give notice no later than May 31 for in-person delivery (or mailed by May 28).

Fixed-Term Leases (e.g., One-Year Lease)

• If your lease has a specific end date (like a 12-month agreement):
  • You generally are not required to give notice—your lease ends automatically on that date, unless your lease says otherwise.
  • If you stay past the end date, the agreement may roll into month-to-month, triggering the 30-day notice rule.

Check your lease carefully. Some leases require written notice near the end date even for fixed-term agreements, so always read your contract.

What If Your Landlord Requires a Longer Notice?

Under Oregon law, landlords cannot require you to give more than 30 days' notice to end a month-to-month rental unless you and the landlord have mutually agreed in writing to a longer period, and even then, the maximum allowed is 60 days^[1].

How to Give Notice Correctly

For your protection, always provide notice in writing with these steps:

• Write a dated move-out notice, stating the day your tenancy will end.
• Include your address, your name, and the landlord's name.
• Deliver a copy in person (get a receipt if possible), or mail it. If mailed, add 3 extra days to the notice period.

Official Oregon Forms

• Notice of Termination – Oregon Form (No official form number):
  • Oregon does not have a state-mandated form, but you can use the model template on the Oregon Housing and Community Services – Tenant Resources page.
  • Use: When you want to end your month-to-month tenancy, fill out this form and deliver to your landlord.
  • Example: "Dear Landlord, this is my 30-day written notice to terminate my month-to-month tenancy at [address]. My last day will be [date]." See Oregon model forms here: Tenant Resources (Oregon.gov).

What Happens If You Move Out Without Giving Proper Notice?

If you don't give the correct notice, you may be charged for extra days or lose part of your security deposit. Your landlord can deduct unpaid rent for the required notice period from your deposit. You can dispute unfair deductions with help from the Oregon courts or tenant support services.

Relevant Laws & Who Handles Disputes

• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90): This law covers notice periods, lease termination, and tenant protections. Read the full text of the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS 90).
• Disputes are generally handled by local Oregon Circuit Courts (Small Claims Division for security deposit or notice issues).

It’s smart for renters to understand these protections and act promptly if questions or disputes arise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Oregon Notice Periods

1. How much notice do I need to give to end a month-to-month rental in Oregon?
   At least 30 days in writing. If you mail your notice, add 3 extra days for mailing time.
2. Can my landlord require more than 30 days’ notice?
   Only if both parties have previously agreed in writing—otherwise, 30 days is the law.
3. Do I have to give notice when leaving at the end of a fixed-term lease?
   Usually not, unless your lease says you must. Check your contract’s end-of-lease rules.
4. Is there a required form for move-out notice in Oregon?
   No official form is required by the state, but providing your notice in writing and keeping a copy is strongly recommended.
5. Where can I find the full landlord-tenant law for Oregon?
   You can view the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS 90) online for free.

Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

• Always give at least 30 days’ written notice for month-to-month rentals in Oregon.
• For fixed-term leases, carefully check your contract for any required move-out notice.
• Deliver your notice with enough time, and keep a copy as proof.

Understanding your rights and obligations can prevent surprises and secure your rental history.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Tenant Rights & Resources
• Oregon Judicial Department – Find Your Local Court
• OregonLawHelp.org – Basics of Renters’ Rights
• For rental disputes, contact the local Oregon Circuit Court’s Small Claims division.

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1. See Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS 90.427) for notice requirements.

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