What if domestic abuse has occurred?

General Rule: If your client is a victim of domestic violence and believes they are at risk of harm or injury they are allowed to break their lease early by giving their landlord 28 days’ notice. This notice period is much shorter than the normal notice period (2 months). This notice period also does not have to fall on a day that is at the end of a rental term/period (e.g., end of the month).

Note: Those who have been charged with domestic violence related charges may be at risk of losing their tenancy.

How You Can Help:

• If your client is a victim of domestic violence, refer them for legal advice immediately. The rules to give proper notice in these circumstances are complicated and involve additional paperwork and deadlines.

If your client has been charged with domestic violence related charges, refer them for legal advice immediately as they might be at risk of losing their tenancy.