Florida Security Deposit Normal Wear and Tear
In a Florida security deposit dispute, normal use and routine turnover should be separated from actual tenant-caused damage. If the landlord keeps money for claimed damage, the claim notice and the proof behind the charge matter.
Florida Statutes section 83.49 sets the deposit notice process. It does not give a detailed ordinary-wear checklist, so keep the dispute practical and evidence-based.
How to frame the issue
Ask whether the charge is for:
- actual damage beyond normal use
- unpaid rent or another amount actually due
- a lease-based claim supported by facts
- routine repainting, cleaning, aging, or turnover the landlord has not tied to tenant-caused damage
If you receive a claim notice and disagree, object in writing within 15 days after receipt.
What evidence helps
Useful records include move-in photos, move-out photos, inspection notes, repair estimates, cleaning records, messages with the landlord, the claim notice, the envelope or email record, and your written objection.
Related Florida guides
- What can a Florida landlord deduct?
- Florida security deposit evidence guide
- Florida security deposit demand letter
- Florida move-out checklist
The guide above helps you frame the deduction issue. The paid system gives you the Florida letters that use that record at each step.
The practical move is to answer unsupported charges in writing, preserve proof, and keep the dispute tied to the notice, objection, and evidence record.
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Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.