Florida Rental Law Changes to Help Foster Harmony Between Landlords and Tenants
As we welcome the new year, Dishowitz Law is excited to share transformative updates to Florida tenant laws in 2024. These changes are designed to benefit both landlords and tenants, promoting transparency, awareness, and collaboration. US News & World Reports cites a U.S. Census Bureau statistic that reveals Florida has over 21 million people and grew by 13.3% from April 2010 to July 2018.
Deposit Law for Mutual Security: Protecting Investments, Building Trust Deposit disputes are a common pain point for both landlords and tenants. The Florida Bar’s Consumer Pamphlet: Rights and Duties of Tenants and Landlords explains that “When a person pays rent to live in a house, apartment, condominium or mobile home, the renter becomes a tenant governed by Florida law”…facts that are true “even when there is no written ‘lease’ agreement.” In the spirit of transparency, the new law mandates landlords to provide a detailed itemization of any deductions within 30 days of lease termination.
Avail.co states that some of the allowable damage deductions can come in the form of:
- Pet damages;
- Neglecting the rental;
- Unauthorized renovations;
- And more.
This safeguards tenants’ hard-earned money and fosters trust and transparency, creating a positive rental environment for both parties.
Empowering Tenants Through Knowledge: Informed Tenants, Cooperative Living
Understanding tenant rights is the foundation of a positive renting experience. The new law requires landlords to provide a comprehensive handbook outlining tenants’ rights. This empowers tenants and cultivates a cooperative atmosphere, reducing potential conflicts.
For example, landlords in Florida can check an applicant’s credit history, eviction history, and criminal history with authorization. However, Florida landlords aren’t allowed to inquire about any of the seven protected classes outlined by the federal Fair Housing Act:
- Race;
- Color;
- National origin;
- Family status;
- Religion;
- Sex;
- Disability
According to the Florida Housing Coalition, increased tenant awareness benefits both parties, creating a more informed and harmonious rental community.
Landlord Accountability for a Balanced Relationship: Resolving Disputes Through Collaboration
Landlord-tenant disputes can strain relationships and resources, especially in Florida’s eviction-prone environment. According to AdvisorSmith, a small business research website, a new report reveals that 15.6% of Florida’s renting households are at risk of eviction in the next two months. The new law introduces a mandatory mediation process before resorting to court, emphasizing collaboration and reducing the burden on landlords and tenants. This shift encourages open communication, fostering healthier, more resilient landlord-tenant relationships.
A Significant Positive Step In The Florida Rental Landscape Environment
2024 marks a significant step towards a more balanced and cooperative rental landscape in Florida. Dishowitz Law is committed to guiding landlords and tenants through these changes, ensuring a positive and mutually beneficial rental experience. Let’s embrace these updates, foster collaboration, and build a rental community that thrives on transparency, awareness, and harmony.
Mutual Benefits: Your Path to Harmony: Ensuring Peace of Mind for All
At Dishowitz Law, we understand that a harmonious rental relationship benefits landlords and tenants. Our team is here if you’re a landlord seeking guidance on these changes or a tenant facing issues. Let’s work together to navigate these updates and ensure a positive rental experience for everyone involved.
Reach out for a free consultation today by calling (855) 236-3474 or emailing bdishowitz@sflalaw.com.