Break clause

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Formal Neutral

What it really means

A clause in the contract that lets you (or the landlord) end the tenancy early, often at the six-month point, by giving notice. Always check if your contract has one and exactly how it works before you sign.

Chinese explanation

合同中允许你（或房东）提前终止租约的条款，常设在第六个月，需提前通知。签约前务必确认合同是否有此条款以及具体如何执行。

Example conversation

A: I might leave the UK next summer. B: Then ask for a break clause so you’re not stuck paying a full year.

A：我明年夏天可能离开英国。 B：那就要求加一个解约条款，免得被绑着付整年房租。

What you could say back

“Could a six-month break clause be added to the contract?”

Related phrases

Fixed term Notice period AST (assured shorthold tenancy)

Official sources

Rules and amounts change — confirm important details with the official source.

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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake