There comes a time when you must consider breaking a lease, and there are many reasons for this consideration. You are moving to a new city. You got a new job and want a shorter commute. You can no longer afford the rent. Your neighbors are so abominable that they're making you miserable. Whatever the reason, remember there are consequences to breaking a lease.

Breaking a lease means you are breaking a binding contract with the landlord. Standard penalties can include losing your security deposit and paying rent until the landlord finds a new tenant. You may also risk a bad reference from you landlord, which will affect your chances of renting a new apartment. Many leases specify the penalties to breaking a lease, so read your lease to see if there is a clause discussing this.