Breaking a lease in California
Free tools for California tenants — estimate early exit costs, check sublet legality, then unlock draft notices or a full ranked exit plan.
- ✓ Instant cost range — no signup
- ✓ Local mitigation & consent context
- ✓ Upgrade to draft notice ($19) or full plan ($49)
Break a lease in California
Estimate your early termination cost after landlord mitigation. Most renters start here.
Calculate my cost — free →Is subletting legal in California?
Risk score and consent strategy — not apartment listings. Know your options before you advertise.
Check legality — free →California lease exit overview
California law generally requires landlords to make reasonable efforts to re-rent after a tenant breaks a lease. You may remain liable for rent until a replacement tenant is found, minus what the landlord collects.
Subletting in California depends on your lease terms and state tenant law. Many leases require written landlord consent before subletting or assigning.
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Common questions
- How much does it cost to break a lease in California?
- It depends on remaining rent, your lease terms, and whether the landlord must mitigate damages in California. Use the free calculator above for a personalized range. California law generally requires landlords to make reasonable efforts to re-rent after a tenant breaks a lease. You may remain liable for rent until a replacement tenant is found, minus what the landlord collects.
- Does my landlord have to re-rent the unit if I leave early in California?
- Many California jurisdictions require landlords to mitigate damages by making reasonable efforts to re-rent. Your lease and local rules still control — the calculator and full report explain common considerations for California.
- Is a lease break calculator enough, or do I need a full exit plan?
- The free estimate shows a cost range. The $19 report adds a full mitigation checklist and draft notice. For ranked strategies (sublet, assignment, buyout, negotiation), use the free lease advisor and optional $49 plan package.