A lease agreement is a written contract that states that you will live and pay rent in a property for the term of the lease. If you break the lease and move out early in Virginia, you may be liable for all rent due for the remainder of your lease term. In addition, the landlord may be able to recover additional damages to compensate the landlord for re-advertising, reasonable attorney fees or other additional expenses that result from your breach of the lease. Therefore, it is best to discuss this decision with your landlord to see if you can come to an agreement regarding your lease. For example, your landlord may agree to let you out of your lease if you find another tenant to assume the remainder of your lease term. Or, your landlord may agree to keep your security deposit and not pursue further legal action if you break your lease. Remember to get any new agreement in writing. For more information, see http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/consumer/tenant/tenant_landlord_faqs.htm#question10.