Florida security deposit return statement
Florida runs two clocks: 15 days to return the deposit in full, or 30 days to send a certified-mail notice of intended deductions. This page pre-selects Florida.
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- Full refund
- 15 days after the tenant vacates
- With deductions
- 30 days to send written notice by certified mail
- Tenant response
- Tenant has 15 days to object after receiving the notice
- Statute
- Fla. Stat. ยง 83.49
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Property & Parties
Security Deposit
Required in some states: NY, IL, others
Deductions
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What the statement has to say
Florida Statute ยง 83.49 sets two different deadlines. If you intend to return the entire deposit, you have 15 days from the end of the tenancy to do so. If you intend to keep any part of it, you have 30 days to send the tenant written notice by certified mail to their last known mailing address, stating your intention to impose a claim and the reason for it.
The notice has required language. It must tell the tenant they have 15 days from receipt to object in writing, and where to send that objection. Omitting the required statement is a common reason Florida landlords forfeit their claim.
Fail to send the notice within 30 days and you forfeit the right to impose any claim on the deposit โ you must return it in full, and the tenant may recover attorney fees. Use certified mail with return receipt so the send date is provable, and keep the receipt with the statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is Florida's deposit deadline 15 or 30 days?
Both. 15 days to return the full deposit with no deductions, or 30 days to mail a written notice of intent to impose a claim when you are keeping part of it.
Does the Florida notice have to be certified mail?
Yes. The notice of intent to impose a claim must be sent by certified mail to the tenant's last known mailing address, and must state the amount and reason for the claim.
What happens if I miss the 30-day notice in Florida?
You forfeit the right to impose any claim on the deposit and must return it in full. The tenant may also recover court costs and attorney fees.
How long does the tenant have to object?
15 days from receiving your notice. If the tenant objects in writing, you may not deduct without resolving the dispute โ often in county court.
Related guides
- New York security deposit return statement โ
Generate a New York security deposit itemization within the strict 14-day deadline. Covers interest on deposits, the 1-month cap, and the 2ร willful-violation penalty.
- Landlord deposit itemization form โ
Fill out a landlord security deposit itemization form online and download a printable PDF. Itemized deductions, deposit accounting, and your state's return deadline.
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