Your tenant just sent you a message: “I need to move out next month.”

But there's a problem. Their lease doesn't end for another six months.

Now you're wondering: Can they legally leave? Are they still responsible for rent? And what are you supposed to do next?

If you're a landlord or property manager in Washington State, this situation may sound familiar.

The good news is that Washington law provides guidance on early lease termination. However, the answer isn't always as simple as yes or no.

Let's look at what landlords should know before responding to an early termination request.

Yes, tenants can end a lease early in certain circumstances, but moving out does not automatically release them from their rental obligations.

Under Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18), the rules depend on the type of rental agreement, the reason for leaving, and whether a legal exception applies.

For example, tenants with month-to-month agreements generally must provide at least 20 days' written notice before the end of their rental period, under RCW 59.18.200. [1]

But for a fixed-term lease, such as a 12-month agreement, giving 20 days' notice does not automatically cancel the remaining lease term. [2]

That distinction matters, especially when a tenant wants to leave several months before the lease expires.

Washington law recognizes several situations in which a tenant may have the right to terminate a rental agreement early.