Florida Security Deposit Not Returned
If your Florida security deposit was not returned, first figure out which deadline applies. If the landlord made no claim, the deposit is generally due within 15 days after termination after you vacate. If the landlord intends to keep money, the landlord must send a written claim notice within 30 days after termination.
The next step depends on what the landlord did or failed to do. Start with the deadline, preserve the notices, send the right written demand, and keep proof of every step.
If no claim notice was sent
If the landlord did not return the deposit and did not send a claim notice, your demand should point to both parts of the Florida rule: the 15-day no-claim return deadline and the 30-day claim-notice deadline.
Ask for the return of the deposit, required interest if applicable, and a written explanation of any position the landlord is taking.
If a claim notice was sent late
If the landlord sent the claim notice after the 30-day deadline, Florida can make the landlord lose the right to take that claim from the deposit. Keep the wording restrained: demand return of the deposit and preserve all rights available under Florida Statutes section 83.49.
The landlord may still be able to sue separately for claimed damages after returning the deposit, so keep your records organized.
If you received a claim notice and disagree
If you receive a claim notice and disagree, object in writing within 15 days after you receive it. Say what you dispute, why you dispute it, and the amount you believe should be returned.
Save the notice, envelope, email records if any, your objection, and proof of delivery.
What to do next
- Check the Florida security deposit deadline
- Write a Florida security deposit demand letter
- Organize Florida security deposit evidence
- Review Florida small claims basics
The guide above helps you choose the right next step. The paid system gives you the Florida letters in order, from first notice through final demand.
One letter alone is often not enough in Florida because the path can change depending on no claim, late claim notice, disputed claim notice, and the 15-day objection window. The system keeps those steps in order.
Get the Deposit Recovery System
Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.