Florida Security Deposit Law: Fla. Stat. § 83.49 Deadlines & Procedures

Florida Statutes Section 83.49

Florida residential landlord-tenant relationships are governed by the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, specifically Florida Statutes § 83.49.

Two Distinct Statutory Deadlines

• 15-Day Return (No Claim): If the landlord does not intend to impose a claim on the deposit, they must return the full deposit within 15 days of vacating.
• 30-Day Certified Mail Claim: If the landlord intends to make deductions, they must send written notice by certified mail to the tenant's last known mailing address within 30 days, specifying the exact reasons for the claim. Failure to send certified mail within 30 days forfeits the landlord's right to impose a claim.

The Tenant's 15-Day Objection Requirement

Under Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(b), the tenant has 15 days from receipt of the landlord's certified notice to object in writing to the deductions. If the tenant fails to object, the landlord may deduct the claimed amount.

Prevailing Party Attorney's Fees

Florida law grants mandatory reasonable attorney's fees and court costs to the prevailing party in any security deposit litigation under § 83.49(3)(c).