what is the penalty on breaking a lease/contract when renting.
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The penalty is usually ‘spelled out’ in the lease / rental agreement you signed. In absence of that, you should seek out the law that pertains to your situation in your State. In Michigan, you would be responsible for the total amount outstanding for the entire term of your lease / rental period. Unless, it was sub let (re-rented). I suggest that you check out you alternatives (as I indicated above) then, have a conversation with your landlord.