A notice to vacate—also known as a notice of intent to vacate—is a written notice or letter from a tenant to the landlord or the landlord’s property management agent that the tenant will not be renewing the lease when it expires.

The terminology used in a state’s statutes, court opinions, and practices may vary from state to state, but a landlord can also give a tenant a notice to vacate—also known as a 30-day notice, 60-day notice, 90-day notice, 3-day notice, or notice to quit. The landlord may give the tenant notice to vacate due to the upcoming expiration of the lease term or due to a material (significant) breach of the lease agreement or the tenant’s violation of a law.

A tenant or landlord should read the lease agreement carefully before giving a notice to vacate or notice of intent to vacate to comply with the specific requirements of such a notice. In addition to the terms of the lease agreement, state and local laws may provide the circumstances and process for giving notice to vacate. These laws are usually located in a state’s statutes and in city and municipal codes and ordinances.

In Missouri, a notice to vacate is a formal communication from a tenant to a landlord, or vice versa, indicating the intention to end the lease agreement. When a tenant decides not to renew their lease, they must provide this notice according to the terms specified in the lease agreement, which often stipulates the required notice period (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days before the lease ends). Similarly, landlords can issue a notice to vacate to tenants for reasons such as lease expiration, significant lease violations, or legal infractions by the tenant. The specific time frame for a landlord's notice to vacate can vary, with some situations requiring only a 3-day notice for serious lease breaches. Both parties should review their lease agreement and adhere to its terms when issuing a notice. Additionally, they must comply with Missouri state statutes and any applicable local ordinances that govern the eviction process and tenants' rights. It's important to note that the process and requirements for notices to vacate can be affected by changes in legislation or local housing policies, so it may be beneficial to consult with an attorney for the most current advice.