Florida
Security deposit laws in Florida
The Florida-specific deadline, what you can deduct, and how to write a compliant itemized statement — with statutory citations.
Return deadline
15 days
15 days to return the full deposit (no claim), or 30 days to advance a claim of right with an explanation. The tenant then has 15 days to object.
Source: Florida Statutes Section 83.49
What landlords can deduct
- Either return the deposit in full within 15 days, OR advance a claim within 30 days with an itemized explanation.
- Do not deduct for normal wear and tear.
- Florida strictly enforces the dual deadlines (15/30) — missing them can forfeit the right to withhold.
- If no claim is made within 30 days, the landlord forfeits the right to any claim.
Receipts & documentation
- If advancing a claim, provide a written notice explaining each deduction within 30 days.
- Florida does not require copies of receipts to be attached, but supporting invoices are recommended.
- If the tenant objects to the claim within their 15-day window, retain documentation supporting each deduction.
Gray areas to review carefully
Dual 15/30-day deadlines
Florida has two distinct deadlines. Returning the deposit within 15 days is safest if no deductions are made; advancing a claim within 30 days requires a written explanation.
Normal wear and tear vs. damage
Deductions are only for damage beyond normal wear and tear.
Forfeiture for missing deadlines
Missing the 30-day claim deadline can forfeit the right to retain any portion of the deposit.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Florida?
Generally 15 days. 15 days to return the full deposit (no claim), or 30 days to advance a claim of right with an explanation. The tenant then has 15 days to object. Source: Florida Statutes Section 83.49. This is a general rule — verify your specific situation and any local ordinances.
Is an itemized statement required in Florida?
Yes. Florida requires a written itemized list of deductions. Either return the deposit in full within 15 days, OR advance a claim within 30 days with an itemized explanation.
Can a landlord deduct for "normal wear and tear" in Florida?
No. Every US state (including Florida) excludes normal wear and tear from deductibility. Only damage beyond ordinary wear — such as stains, burns, large holes, or breakage — is typically deductible. Compare move-in and move-out photos for each item.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Florida?
Florida has two distinct deadlines. Returning the deposit within 15 days is safest if no deductions are made; advancing a claim within 30 days requires a written explanation.
Does MoveOutGuard support Florida?
Yes — MoveOutGuard generates a Florida-specific deduction letter using the deadline (15 days) and citation (Florida Statutes Section 83.49) above. Upload your receipts and move-out photos and the AI drafts an itemized letter for human review.
Draft your Florida letter in minutes
Upload receipts and photos. Get a Florida-specific itemized deduction letter for human review.
MoveOutGuard is a document preparation and evidence organization tool. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Drafts, checklists, and deadline estimates require your review and are not a guarantee of compliance or outcomes. For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney.