PCS / Military Relocation
Know your lease protections
The SCRA may let you end a residential lease after qualifying orders.
5 minute read
What the protection is
- Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, a servicemember who signs a lease and then receives PCS orders, deployment orders of 90 days or more, or separation or retirement orders may be able to end a residential lease without penalty.
- Ending the lease requires written notice with a copy of the orders or a commanding officer's letter, delivered by certain methods.
Source: DOJ: Know Your Rights, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act; DOJ: SCRA Financial and Housing Rights
Your situation
- Whether and how the protection applies to you is a legal question. Contact your installation legal assistance office or qualified counsel.
- When signing a new lease, look for a military clause and ask your housing office if unsure.
Source: DOJ: Know Your Rights, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act; Military OneSource: On- and Off-Base Housing & Living
Sources
Official material this lesson draws on. Vanguard's explanation is educational; current official requirements govern.