Can I still cancel the lease agreement?

Question

I put on a rental deposit, but have not moved in yet. I am scheduled to move into the apartment in August. Does that mean I have not entered into a one-year contract yet? Please advise how I should approach if I decide to live somewhere else and not move in to that apartment. Thank you!

Answer 1

You don't have to move in. You just forfeit the deposit.

Answer 2

If you signed,  you are obligated.

If you do not move in you will still owe all the rent for the term of the lease.

Answer 3

If you've signed the contract...then yes, you are obligated to it's terms.  Just because it does not start until August does not mean it is not legally binding.

Answer 4

Did you sign a lease? If so, then you are bound by a contract to live in that house for however long you signed your lease for.

Either way - the landlord can keep your deposit.

Answer 5

If you signed the lease agreement, you are obligated. Check with your landlord as some places do have on the date of signing the lease you can have 30 days to withdraw from the contract prior to move in date. I can't promise you that it depends on the landlord and contract. However most of the time if you signed it, you are obligated.

Answer 6

If they find another renter I think you're off the hook.  Depends on the state law.  I think CA gives you some time to still get out.  Contact your local officials.

Answer 7

Your last update answered the question.  You signed an application and gave the complex a deposit to hold an apartment for you.  If you walk away now, you loose that deposit, but it is the only thing they can get out of you.

Answer 8

it doesn't sound like you have signed a lease yet, so you have not entered into the 1 yr contract yet. so at least it will not go bad on your rental record.

You WILL lose your deposit to hold though.