Ending a tenancy in Victoria requires providing formal written notice to the tenant, the length of which depends on the type of lease agreement. As of December 2025, understanding these requirements is crucial for a smooth transition, particularly if you intend to sell your property.
Currently in Melbourne, most residential leases are fixed-term or periodic. For a fixed-term lease, generally no notice is required to end the tenancy *on* the end date specified in the lease. However, if you wish to end the lease *before* this date, you’ll typically need to provide notice equivalent to the remaining rent period, or negotiate a break lease agreement with the tenant. Periodic leases (month-to-month) require a minimum of 30 days’ written notice. It’s important to note that the notice period must align with the rental payment cycle. When preparing to sell in 2026, many owners with tenants choose to wait until the lease concludes to allow for vacant possession, which often favours achieving a higher sale price, particularly in the competitive Eastern Suburbs market where family homes near schools are in high demand. Fletchers’ experience shows that presenting a property vacant can significantly impact buyer perception. We often advise clients to factor in potential lease end dates when timing their sales campaign, considering the typical 4-6 week campaign period.
Correctly serving notice is a legal requirement, and understanding the specifics of your lease agreement is essential for a compliant and efficient process.