To terminate a tenancy, you have to follow your state's rules. Return security deposits according to your state's rules to avoid problems with ex-tenants. And remember, lock-outs and retaliation are off-limits.
State laws spell out rules and procedures for how a landlord can terminate a tenancy based on nonpayment of rent and other illegal acts.
Landlords must follow specific state rules and procedures for ending a tenancy and evicting a tenant.
Federal (and sometimes, state) law come into play when a landlord wants to evict a bankrupt tenant, or a tenant is facing eviction because of foreclosure of the rental property.