Learn when and how tenants may legally break a lease in New York and how to limit liability for rent through the end of the lease term. Doesn't hurt to ask, but unless your lease has a lease termination clause then it is up to the landlord.Use the Early Termination Clause. You have the right to legally terminate your lease under certain conditions, which almost always exist. As mentioned before, landlords may be able to charge a penalty fee if the tenant fails to break the lease without a valid reason. Allow retail tenants to get out of the lease if your sales are low. Wanting to break your California residential lease early for personal reasons like a new job, financial hardship, family emergency etc. Failure to give this notice will result in landlords charging tenants extra rent (usually an extra month's rent). Beyond rent, what are you responsible for? Check your lease agreement for an "early out" clause.