Florida's landlord-tenant law is governed primarily by Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes. It covers everything from security deposit return timelines to habitability standards and eviction procedures.
Here's what Florida renters need to know — and what your landlord is legally required to do.
Security Deposit Rules in Florida
- •No statutory cap on deposit amount in Florida — but it must be held in a separate account
- •Landlord must return deposit within 15 days if no deductions, or 30 days with an itemized deduction list
- •If landlord fails to notify you of deductions within 30 days, they forfeit their right to make deductions
- •Tenant must provide a forwarding address in writing to start the clock
Landlord Entry Rules
Under F.S. 83.53, Florida landlords must provide at least 12 hours' advance notice before entry for non-emergency purposes. Entry must occur between 7:30 AM and 8:00 PM. Emergency entry (fire, flooding, etc.) requires no notice.
Habitability Standards
F.S. 83.51 requires Florida landlords to maintain units in compliance with applicable building, housing, and health codes. Specifically, landlords must maintain: roofs, windows, doors, floors, steps, porches, exterior walls, foundations, and all other structural components.
Late Fees
Florida has no statutory cap on late fees, but they must be written into the lease to be enforceable. Courts have struck down "unreasonable" late fees. If your lease doesn't specify a late fee amount, your landlord cannot charge one.
Eviction Procedures
Florida requires a written 3-day notice (excluding weekends and holidays) for non-payment of rent before any eviction action can be filed. Self-help eviction — changing locks, removing belongings, cutting utilities — is illegal and can result in the landlord owing you damages.
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