The relationship between landlords and tenants can be difficult if not all rights and responsibilities are being adhered to by both parties. Florida is one of the most populated states in the U.S., and therefore has a number of rules and regulations in place to protect the rights of tenants and landlords alike. To learn more about your rights as a tenant, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most essential privileges every Florida renter should have access to.
1. Right to Fair Housing
This is a federal rule all states must adhere to under the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, but that doesn’t make it any less relevant to Florida residents. All people should have equal access to housing, regardless of color, disability, familial status, national origin, race, religion, or sex.
2. Landlord Disclosure
By law, landlords must give any important or relevant information about their property to their tenants, usually in the lease or rental agreement. This information could include how much rent costs, when it is due, how it should be paid and where, how long the lease will be, and other pertinent information.
3. Right to Notice Before Entry
Florida tenants have a right to be notified before their landlord plants to enter their home. Regardless of the reason, whether it is for repairs or an emergency, if the tenants are at home or away, the landlord must give at least 12 hours’ notice.
4. Right to Security Deposit
While the landlord retains the right to collect a security deposit from the tenants, the landlord must also store it correctly and return it when the tenant moves. Security deposits must be stored in a non-interest bearing account, interest bearing account, or purchase the amount of the deposit in a surety bond. If there is no deductions from the deposit, the tenant has a right to receive the deposit 15 days after moving out, or 30 days after if deductions were taken.
5. Right to Withhold Rent
If the landlord does not make necessary repairs, such as broken plumbing, the tenant may withhold rent until it is fixed.
To read the full rights and duties of tenants and landlords, click here.
For more information about tenant rights or landlord privileges, contact Powell, Jackman, Stevens & Ricciardi, P.A..