Ending your tenancy

Ending your council tenancy is a straightforward process, but the amount of notice you need to give depends on your circumstances and the type of property you are moving into.

Below, you’ll find the main reasons why a tenancy may end and what you need to do next.

Moving into private accommodation

If you are moving into private accommodation, moving in with family or friends, or moving to a property owned by a different council or housing association without a nomination from us (including when you have bid directly with another council), you must:

• give four full weeks' notice in writing, starting from a Monday, that you wish to end your tenancy.

This can be done by completing our online form:

You must also sign and return our Tenancy Termination Notice. This can be done on behalf of a resident if you have Power of Attorney (proof is required).

Moving into care or an independent living scheme

If you are moving to an independent living scheme within the Dover district you do not need to give four weeks' notice. The independent living manager of the scheme that you are moving to will arrange a start date of your new tenancy with you and you will need to surrender your current tenancy.

If you are moving to an independent living scheme or a care home outside of the Dover district, you must give at least 28 days’ notice.

Please note that if you are acting on behalf of the tenant you will need to provide evidence that you have Power of Attorney.

What to do before handing back your keys

Before you move out, you must remove all your belongings from the property, including anything stored in the loft, garden or outbuildings.

The home must be left clean and in a good state of repair and decoration. Any damage or unauthorised alterations must be put right before your tenancy ends.

• See our moving out checklist for further information

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