Can't I always terminate my lease with 30 days' notice to the landlord?
No. If your lease provides for a definite termination date, you are typically obligated for the entire lease term, even if you have a good reason for leaving such as illness or a job transfer. Only termination due to certain military transfers is excused. So, if you leave early and the landlord is unable to re-rent your apartment, he may sue you for the unpaid rent and costs, and/or file a negative credit report against you.
Some leases allow a tenant to terminate the lease early under certain circumstances by giving notice. Check your lease to determine if it permits early termination and what amount of notice is required. If, for example, your lease allows you to give 30 days' notice to terminate it, typically, you must notify the landlord at least 30 days before the end of the month in which you propose to leave and pay rent through the end of that month.
I'm renting on a month-to-month basis. What notice must I give to terminate my lease?
http://www.ncrec.state.nc.us/publica...html#terminate