Florida Landlord-Tenant Law: What Miami Landlords Must Know in 2026

Florida landlord-tenant law governs the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants in residential rental relationships. For Miami and South Florida landlords, understanding Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes is essential to protecting your investment and avoiding costly legal disputes.

Security Deposits in Florida

Florida law requires landlords to hold security deposits in one of three ways: in a separate non-interest-bearing account, in a separate interest-bearing account, or by posting a surety bond. Landlords must provide written notice to tenants within 30 days of receiving a security deposit, specifying where and how the deposit is held. Failure to comply can result in the landlord forfeiting the right to make claims against the deposit.

When a tenancy ends, Florida landlords have 15 days to return the full security deposit, or 30 days to provide written notice of any intended deductions. Deductions must be itemized and can only be made for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or other lease violations.

Notice Requirements for Lease Termination

Florida law requires specific notice periods for lease termination depending on the type of tenancy. For month-to-month tenancies, either party must provide at least 15 days' written notice before the end of the monthly period. For week-to-week tenancies, 7 days' notice is required. For annual leases, the notice requirements depend on the specific terms of the lease agreement.

The Florida Eviction Process

Eviction in Florida follows a specific legal process. The first step is providing the tenant with a written notice — typically a 3-day notice for non-payment of rent or a 7-day notice for lease violations. If the tenant does not comply, the landlord must file an eviction lawsuit (unlawful detainer) in the county court. The court will schedule a hearing, and if the landlord prevails, the court will issue a writ of possession allowing the sheriff to remove the tenant.

Self-help evictions — changing locks, removing belongings, or shutting off utilities to force a tenant out — are illegal in Florida and can expose landlords to significant liability. Always follow the legal eviction process.

How Professional Property Management Protects You

A professional property manager handles all aspects of Florida landlord-tenant law compliance on your behalf — from properly written leases and security deposit management to notice procedures and eviction coordination. Urban Key Property Management ensures your South Florida rental properties are managed in full compliance with Florida law, protecting your investment and minimizing legal risk.