Florida Landlord-Tenant Law
Florida is one of the most populous states in the U.S., home to a number of top universities such as the University of Central Florida and Florida International University. As such, it’s an ideal option for a landlord looking to invest in rental property for the first time or expand their existing assets. For our recommendations on exactly where to invest in this state, take a look at our Florida rental investment report – keep reading below for helpful tips and resources regarding Florida landlord-tenant law.
Laws that impact the rental market, landlords, and tenants are constantly being decided in states. Make sure you know what’s on your ballot – find Florida voting information here.
Florida Renters' Rights and Landlord Responsibilities
- Give tenants three days before filing for eviction
- Maintain habitable housing or tenants may withhold rent
- Return security deposits within 15-60 days
- Provide 12-hours’ notice before entering a unit
- Specifically disclose any lead paint on the property
When it comes to Florida rental laws, there are a few specifics that landlords need to know:
- Filing for eviction: In Florida, landlords must give tenants three full days to either pay overdue rent or move out of the unit before they can officially file for eviction.
- Provide habitable housing: If landlords don’t deal with repairs that affect a tenant’s quality of life, such as a broken heater in the winter or a perpetually-clogged sink, the tenant may legally withhold rent until the repairs are taken care of.
- Timeline for security deposits: Landlords must return their tenants’ security deposits within 15-60 days after move-out, depending on whether the tenant decides to argue any maintenance or cleaning deductions.
- Notice for entering: The required notice to enter a unit is shorter in Florida than in many other states. Landlords must provide 12 hours’ notice before entering the unit, though this may not apply in case of emergencies.
- Specific disclosures: There are specific disclosures that landlords must make clear to tenants, including any lead-based paint in the unit and whether the security deposit will gain interest during the lease term.
- Rental applications (Miami-Dade County only): As of May 22, 2022, it is unlawful for landlords to require eviction history disclosure in tenant applications until the renter has been determined qualified to rent the unit.
Florida Landlords' Rights and Tenant Responsibilities
- Comply with all relevant housing codes
- Take care of all parts of the unit belonging to the landlord
- Keep plumbing fixtures clear and functional
- Remove garbage frequently from the unit
- Be respectful of neighbors with safe and quiet behavior
On the flip side of Florida rental laws are tenant responsibilities. Renters are obligated to uphold their part of the lease agreement just like landlords.
- Comply with housing codes: Florida tenants are required to do their part in making sure the unit is keeping up with housing codes by maintaining the safety and cleanliness of the building.
- Take care of the property: Tenants are not allowed to destroy or deface any of the items within the unit belonging to the landlord, including most appliances.
- Maintain the plumbing: Along with these first two points, Florida tenants should be keeping plumbing fixtures clean and functioning.
- Keep garbage to a minimum: In order to keep the unit safe and clean, tenants should be removing garbage frequently and disposing of it properly.
- Mind the neighbors: Tenants can’t disturb the peace of their neighbors with unsafe behavior or noisy activities
Florida Landlord-Tenant Law FAQ
Below are answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to landlord-tenant laws in Florida:
What are My Rights as a Renter in Florida?
There are many rights granted to tenants in Florida, including the right to live in a safe and functioning home, the right to proper written notice before eviction, and the return of the security deposit promptly after moving out. See the links below for more specific Florida landlord-tenant law.
What are Your Rights as a Tenant Without a Lease in Florida?
Even if a tenant in Florida hasn’t signed a formal lease agreement, they still have the same basic protections as leasing tenants, along with a claim to the property. By paying rent, these types of tenants still have rights under the state-specific laws governing residential rental transactions.
How Long Does a Landlord Have to Fix Something in Florida?
Landlords in Florida are required to make repairs within one week of receiving notice of the issue. If they do not, tenants may be able to withhold rent until the issue is taken care of.
How Long Can a Tenant Stay After the Lease Expires in Florida?
Without paying extra rent, tenants can’t remain in the unit for any amount of time after the lease expires. If they do stay after the end of the lease, they become “holdover tenants” and landlords may legally charge double the amount of the original rent per month.
How Much Notice Does a Landlord Have to Give a Tenant to Move Out in Florida?
Landlords must provide a 15-day written notice for tenants to move out, specifying the exact date when the tenants must be out of the property.
Can a Landlord Enter Without Permission in Florida?
Landlords may only enter a unit without permission in a specific set of circumstances:
- If the tenant withholds access unreasonably after the landlord has sent a 12-hour notice.
- There is an emergency that threatens the property, such as a fire.
- If the landlord believes the tenant has abandoned the property. The tenant must have been absent for at least two weeks in this case.
Due Diligence and Florida Rental Laws
TurboTenant has utilized many municipal sources along with official state statutes in order to compile this information to the best of our ability. However, local laws are always in flux and landlords and tenants alike should be sure to do their due diligence and consult legal help when it’s needed. We hope the following list can serve as a valuable resource and allow you to succeed as a tenant or landlord in Florida. Be sure to take proper precautions when it comes to finding the top candidates for your unit by utilizing our online rental application and tenant screening services.
Disclaimer: TurboTenant, Inc does not provide legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. All users are advised to check all applicable local, state, and federal laws and consult legal counsel should questions arise.
General Florida Landlord-Tenant Law Resources
Florida Fair Housing Resources
Additional Florida Rental Laws Resources
Florida Landlord Associations
Federal Fair Housing Resources
City-Specific Housing Resources
Palm Bay
Pompano Beach
West Palm Beach
Lakeland
Davie
Miami Beach
Boca Raton
Deltona
Plantation
Sunrise
Palm Coast
Largo
Deerfield Beach
Melbourne
Miami Gardens
Clearwater
Fort Pierce
Miami
Tampa
Orlando
Jacksonville
St. Petersburg
Hialeah
Tallahassee
Fort Lauderdale
Port St. Lucie
Cape Coral
Pembroke Pines
Hollywood
Miramar
Gainesville
Coral Springs
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