Can my landlord charge me a big fee for leaving early?Beta*

Since 1 May 2026 most private tenants in England can simply give two months' notice, so there is no fixed term to break and no early exit fee. If you agree with the landlord to leave sooner than your notice allows, the Tenant Fees Act only lets them charge the actual loss or reasonable costs this causes them, such as rent until a new tenant moves in, or reasonable re-letting costs. They can't charge a penalty. And if you are leaving because the landlord seriously broke the agreement, for example by leaving the home unsafe, get advice before paying anything.

Sources: GOV.UK: Tenant Fees Act guidanceShelter: Renters' Rights Act changes for private tenants