Military clause narrower than SCRA requires
SCRA gives service members the right to terminate with 30 days' notice on PCS/deployment orders. A lease can expand rights but cannot restrict them.
Did this answer your question?
Is this clause in your lease?
Upload your lease and we'll flag this clause (and every other red flag) in 30 seconds — free.
What it actually means
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is federal law — it overrides any lease clause that provides less protection.
If the lease says you need 90 days' notice or owe a fee despite military orders, that portion is void. You still get SCRA rights.
What it looks like in a lease
"Military termination is permitted only with 60 days' notice and payment of one month's Rent as a fee."
What to watch for
- Whether termination requires any fee (SCRA says no)
- Notice period (SCRA: 30 days after next rent due date)
How to negotiate it
'Federal law (SCRA) supersedes this clause. Please strike it or match SCRA terms.'
When it crosses into a red flag
- Any fee required
- Notice exceeds SCRA requirements
Frequently asked questions
Does SCRA apply to Guard/Reserve?
Yes — when activated for 90+ days under federal orders.
Want to know how this works in your specific state? Read the Breaking a lease early guide, or pick your state from the guide index.
Related clauses
General information, not legal advice. Clauses are interpreted differently across states and courts. For a binding interpretation of your specific lease, consult a licensed attorney in your state.
