Eviction Notice template

Free eviction notice template

An eviction notice is a legal document issued by a landlord to notify a tenant that they must vacate the rental property by a certain date or timeframe. Also referred to as a notice of eviction, it’s typically given when a tenant has violated the terms of the lease, such as non-payment of rent or property damage. 

The required notice period for an eviction is determined by local laws and the specific reason for the action, such as a 14-day notice for unpaid rent versus a 10-day notice for a lease violation. This legally mandated timeframe must give the tenant the opportunity to either resolve the issue or vacate the premises. Consult your local laws to understand the specific requirements for notice periods and eviction procedures.

Using Docusign’s standard eviction notice template ensures the process is handled professionally and within legal guidelines. All you need is a free account. 

Docusign can support you in navigating legal documents like our free eviction letter template. Once completed, you can edit the notice to quit content as needed and send it digitally within the Docusign experience for quick and secure delivery. 

What is an eviction notice?

An eviction notice is a formal, written communication issued by a landlord that informs a tenant they must either correct a violation—such as paying overdue rent or resolving a lease breach—within a set timeframe, or vacate the property. In most states, it’s the legally required first step before the landlord can begin the eviction process in court.

In the majority of U.S. states, the issuance of an eviction notice is a legally mandated prerequisite before a landlord can escalate the matter to the judicial system and commence formal eviction proceedings in court. This initial step is designed to provide the tenant with an opportunity to cure the violation and avoid further legal action, while also ensuring that the landlord adheres to proper legal protocol. 

The content and delivery of an eviction notice are often subject to stringent state and local laws, which dictate specific timelines, acceptable delivery methods (e.g., certified mail, personal service), and the precise information that must be included within the notice itself. Failure to comply with these legal requirements can render the eviction notice invalid and potentially delay or complicate a landlord's ability to regain possession of their property through the courts.

When do you need an eviction notice?

You typically need to serve an eviction notice before starting a formal eviction lawsuit—especially if a tenant has not complied with their lease. Common scenarios include:

• Non-payment of rent, where the tenant is given a few days to pay or move out

• Lease violations, such as unauthorized pets or repeated noise disturbances, often addressed with a “cure or quit” notice.

• Ending a month-to-month tenancy or non-renewal, which usually requires 30-, 60-, or even 90-day notice depending on local laws.

In short: a written eviction notice is almost always required before a landlord can legally remove a tenant, and skipping this step can invalidate the process. Check your state and local regulations on eviction notice period and service of the notice.

What is included in an eviction notice?

To be legally enforceable, an eviction notice should include:

• Landlord’s contact information: Full name, address, phone number, and email.

• Date of notice: The date the notice is issued.

• Tenant’s information: Name(s) of tenant(s) and rental property address.

• Clear statement of notice: Title and/or subject line (e.g., “Notice to Vacate” or “Notice of Termination of Tenancy”).

• Reason for eviction: Specific grounds (e.g., nonpayment of rent, lease violation, end of lease, or other legal cause).

• Remedy or vacate instructions: The action required of the tenant—either to correct the issue (if allowed) or to vacate by a certain date.

• Timeframe for compliance: The number of days the tenant has to comply, as required by law.

• Consequences of non-compliance: A statement indicating that legal proceedings may begin if the tenant does not comply.

• Landlord’s signature and name

• Certificate of service: Documentation of how and when the notice was delivered.

Additional (optional) parts

• Breakdown of amount owed: Itemize past due rent, late fees, etc.

• Details of lease violation: Additional description or evidence of the violation.

• Instructions for payment: How and where to pay any owed amounts.

• Information on tenant rights: Some jurisdictions require or recommend attaching a summary of tenant rights or referral to local resources.

• Contact for questions: Providing a method for the tenant to contact the landlord for clarification.

• Move-out checklist or procedures: Outline of what the tenant should do before leaving.