Do you want to break up with us?
We understand sometimes things don’t work out and there is a need to move out and alter your accommodation.
The legal stuff:
When you moved in, you signed a residential tenancy contract which is a legally binding document. This basically means you are required to adhere to this contract, even if you make other plans.
But we don't want you to leave :(
We really like you living with us so if there is something we can help you with so you don’t need to leave, reach out to a team member for a chat.
The important stuff
This information is good for you to be aware of because ultimately if you just leave, it could affect your rental history in Australia and you may not be allowed back at The Switch. If you leave your account in arrears, you bond will be taken and you may be subjected to further legal action.
Your options
Option 1: Pay out
You can pay out the remaining of your legally binding contract. For example if you have 4 weeks left, you pay the rent for those 4 weeks. If you have 6 months left, you pay the rent for those 6 months.
Option 2: Get replaced
You can find a suitable candidate to take over your lease.
But there are a few catches.
The person taking over the lease will need to align with the type of apartment you live in. For example, if you are living in a shared apartment, and you are a female student, you must find a female student to replace you. This is due to how the allocations must remain in the shared apartments.
Note: This does not apply for our Studio apartments.
If you choose this replacement option, there is a timeline you will need to consider. The Switch requires at least one week from the day the person taking over is approved to process all required documents, which includes terminating your current lease, creating a new contract for the new person, receiving payments, and more.
Note: Melbourne Only - These requests will only be assessed on a Tuesday and Thursdays. You will also only be able to check out on a Tuesday.
Your lease will not be terminated until a payment from the person taking over has been received. This includes two weeks deposit, and four weeks bond.
The Switch can help on some occasions to help you find a suitable candidate, but you are the person responsible to make sure this is done promptly.
Please note, every break lease will incur in a $300 admin fee. This is due to setting up the new person and connection charges.
Breaking your lease may affect your rental history in Australia, and if you re-apply to live at The Switch, you will no longer be eligible.
Option 3: Follow terms in your lease agreement.
You can refer to the specific terms in your lease agreement if you are residing in New South Wales properties.
To proceed with Option 2 or 3 please click on 'Modify My Contract' in Perth or Adelaide to submit your request. For Melbourne and Sydney please select 'Break Lease Request' via The Switch app's Resident Requests and complete the required form.
We are sorry to hear you may need to break your lease but we hope this information is useful to you.