What Can a Florida Landlord Deduct From a Security Deposit?
A Florida landlord who wants to keep deposit money must use the Florida claim-notice process. The landlord must send written notice of the intention to impose a claim within 30 days after termination and explain the reason for the claim.
If you disagree with the claim, object in writing within 15 days after you receive the notice.
Common deduction disputes
Florida deposit disputes often involve:
- unpaid rent or other amounts actually due under the lease
- claimed damage to the unit
- cleaning or repair charges that are not well supported
- charges that look like normal use or routine turnover
- deductions that are not explained clearly
Florida Statutes section 83.49 does not turn every deduction dispute into an automatic penalty case. The strongest dispute usually focuses on the claim notice, the reason given, the proof, the amount kept, and your written objection.
The claim notice matters
If the landlord intends to keep any part of the deposit, the landlord must send the written claim notice within 30 days after termination. If the notice is late or missing, Florida can make the landlord lose the right to take that claim from the deposit.
If a notice arrives, read it quickly. Your 15-day objection window runs from receipt.
Related Florida guides
- Florida security deposit deadline
- Florida security deposit demand letter
- Florida security deposit evidence guide
- Florida normal wear and tear guide
The guide above helps you evaluate the deduction. The paid system gives you the Florida letters that put that dispute into a clear sequence.
That sequence matters because a deduction dispute is not just about whether a charge feels fair. It is also about the claim notice, your objection, the proof behind the charge, and the amount still owed.
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Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.