VPLC's Eviction Defense Center
Virginia Poverty Law Center

Understanding a Lease Non-Renewal Notice

If your landlord doesn't want you to keep living in the place you're renting, they might give you a non-renewal letter. The letter will remind you when your lease ends and ask you to leave by that day.

What is the notice called?

This notice does not have a legal name, but it might be called one of these things:

  • Notice of Lease Non-Renewal
  • Notice of Expiration
  • Notice to Vacate

What does it mean?

It means that your landlord wants you to move when your lease runs out. They will not renew the lease.

What’s in the notice?

This notice will have three main pieces of information:

  1. The date your landlord gave you the notice.
  2. A statement that the lease will not be renewed.
  3. The date your lease will end and you should move out.

Keep in mind

  • Even after the lease runs out, your landlord can’t just force you out. They must go through the court process and get the sheriff involved. See all the steps in that process. 
  • Go to Fight my eviction to learn how you can respond to a landlord’s non-renewal notice.

You may want to talk to a lawyer for specific advice. Contact your local Legal Aid office to see if you qualify for free help.

Take action

Learn what you can do to try to stay in your home and avoid eviction.

Fight my eviction

Sometimes, you can't avoid eviction if your landlord wants you out. But it is always good to learn how the law can protect you and what you can do about your situation.