North Carolina Early termination (DV/military)

Can a tenant break a lease early for domestic violence or military service in North Carolina?

Domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking victims can end the lease with written notice effective at least 30 days after the landlord receives it. The notice needs a protection order (or criminal order or Address Confidentiality card), plus a safety plan for DV and sexual-assault victims (§ 42-45.1). Servicemembers with PCS orders 50+ miles away, or deployed 90+ days, can terminate with 30 days' notice and orders. Liquidated damages are limited to one month's rent (under 6 months of tenancy) or half a month (6–9 months) (§ 42-45). Neither right can be waived.

Verified Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 42-45, 42-45.1 · last checked 2026-10-15