How do I file a complaint against a landlord in Florida?

Like most states, Florida offers renters a number of ways to file a complaint including:

1. Filing a complaint with The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
2. Filing a lawsuit in court.
3. Lodging a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
4. Filing a complaint with the city’s relevant department.

Can you withhold rent for roaches in Florida?

Florida landlords must keep their rental properties in livable condition. If they don’t, tenants can withhold rent—as long as they’ve already notified the landlord in writing and given them seven days to make a repair. They can remain in the unit and withhold partial rent until the issue is fixed.

What rights do I have as a renter in Florida?

The Florida Residential Landlord Tenant Act prevails over what the lease says. A tenant is entitled to the right of private, peaceful possession of the dwelling. Once rented, the dwelling is the tenant’s to lawfully use. If the landlord has to make repairs to make the dwelling fit to live in, the landlord must pay.

Does a landlord have to provide pest control in Florida?

Under Florida law, your landlord is responsible for pest control if you live in an apartment. But your landlord is not responsible for pest control if you live in a duplex or family home. It is always a good idea to check the lease.

How much notice does a landlord have to give if not renewing lease in Florida?

Although it may not be required by the lease and is certainly not required by Florida law, we highly recommend that the manager give a Notice of Non-renewal to the resident at least 30 days prior to the end of the lease.

Is there an ombudsman for tenants?

The Housing Ombudsman Service (HOS) is a dispute resolution service that was set up to help landlords and tenants resolve disputes without going to court. The service is free, independent and impartial to all tenants and landlords.

What are a tenant’s rights under Florida landlord and tenant law?

Under Florida law, the tenant has the right to proper service of any lawsuit in which the tenant is named as a defendant, including the two most common landlord-tenant lawsuits: (1) an eviction lawsuit and (2) a lawsuit filed to recover unpaid rent or damages.

What happens if a landlord does not comply with Florida law?

If the Landlord Does Not Comply A tenant must notify the landlord, in writing, by hand delivery or mail, of noncompliance with Florida law or the requirements of the rental agreement. The written notice shall also indicate the tenant’s intention to terminate the rental agreement due to this noncompliance.

Can a landlord evict a tenant for no reason in Florida?

Landlords in Florida may evict tenants for failure to pay rent, lease violations, failure to maintain the rental property, causing damage to the rental property, disturbing the peace & end of lease terms. A written eviction notice must be served, with the time required depending on the reason for termination.

What happens if there is no written lease in Florida?

If there is no written lease, these laws regulate the tenant’s rights. There also may be a written lease that could affect a tenant’s rights. If there is a written lease, it should be carefully reviewed. The Florida Residential Landlord Tenant Act prevails over what the lease says.