Ending a Tenancy in Lahore: Notice Periods and Moving Out

Leaving a rented home on good terms is mostly about timing and paperwork. Give notice the way your agreement says, settle the bills, hand over the house in good condition, and the deposit should come back without a fight.

How much notice is normal

Your rent agreement should say how much notice each side must give. One month is the most common notice period for houses, portions and flats in Lahore; commercial tenancies often have longer notice. If your agreement is silent, agree a period with the landlord in writing before you start planning the move.

How to give notice properly

• Give it in writing: a signed letter, or at least a clear WhatsApp message that states your last day.
• Keep a copy, and a record of when it was delivered.
• Mention the date you will hand over the keys and ask how the landlord wants to do the final inspection.
• If you are leaving before the agreed term ends, check what the agreement says about early exit. You may have to pay rent for the notice period even if you leave sooner.

If the landlord wants you to leave

A landlord should also give the notice set out in the agreement. A landlord cannot force a tenant out by changing the locks, removing belongings or cutting electricity, gas or water. If a tenant refuses to leave, the landlord's route is the Rent Tribunal under the Punjab Rented Premises Act, 2009, on grounds such as the end of the tenancy period or unpaid rent. See tenant rights in Punjab for the grounds the law recognises.

Move-out checklist

1. Pay the final month's rent as agreed, or confirm in writing that it is being adjusted from advance rent.
2. Arrange the final electricity and gas bills. Photograph the meter readings on your last day. Our LESCO and SNGPL guide explains how to check bills.
3. Repair small damage you caused and clean the house, including the kitchen and bathrooms.
4. Remove your fittings carefully, such as ACs, curtain rods and wall shelves, and fill any holes.
5. Do a walk-through with the landlord and compare the house with your move-in photos.
6. Return all keys and get a written note that you have handed over possession.
7. Agree the deposit refund date in writing. See getting your deposit back.
8. Tell the police station or Khidmat Markaz where the tenancy was registered that you have moved, if your landlord hasn't already.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws and procedures can change. For a specific situation, speak to a qualified lawyer or the relevant office.