Rent control is a topic of interest for many tenants and landlords alike. It refers to laws and regulations that dictate how much a landlord can increase the rent charged to tenants. While cities like New York are renowned for their rent control systems, the situation in Florida is different. Let’s delve into the specifics of rent control in Florida and its implications.

The Essence of Rent Control

Rent control laws aim to protect tenants from exorbitant rent hikes, especially in competitive real estate markets. These laws often cap the percentage by which rent can be increased annually, ensuring housing remains affordable for residents. However, Florida’s stance on this is distinct.

Florida’s Rent Control Status

Florida, including its cities, does not have rent control ordinances. This means that landlords have the freedom to set rental prices based on market demand. The only limiting factor is the availability of tenants willing to pay the set amount. Naturally, rents tend to be higher in sought-after areas close to amenities like schools, shopping centers, and entertainment hubs.

Recent Rent Trends in Florida

The absence of rent control has influenced rental prices in Florida cities. For instance, Tampa, a major Floridian city, has witnessed significant rent fluctuations. As of 2023, the average rent in Tampa is approximately $1,602, marking a steady increase from $1,248 in October 2018. Such trends are not exclusive to Tampa; cities like Boca Raton have also seen rapid rent hikes, with some areas experiencing a 13% increase from 2016 to 2017, reaching an average rent of $2,197 per month.

Negotiating Rent Increases

If your landlord intends to raise the rent after your lease term, it’s worth negotiating. Highlighting factors like timely rent payments or property maintenance might influence their decision. Engaging in a candid conversation can lead to a mutually beneficial agreement.

Landlord Obligations

While landlords in Florida have the freedom to set rental prices, they are also bound by specific obligations to ensure the well-being and rights of their tenants. These obligations encompass a range of responsibilities, including:

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  • Maintaining Habitability: Landlords are required to ensure that the rental property is safe and habitable. This includes addressing issues related to plumbing, heating, and structural safety. Any reported problems should be promptly fixed to ensure the tenant’s safety and comfort.
  • Security Deposits: Landlords must handle security deposits with care. This means providing a receipt upon collection, storing the deposit in a separate bank account, and returning it to the tenant upon lease termination, minus any deductions for repairs or unpaid rent. Any deductions should be itemized and communicated to the tenant.
  • Notice for Rent Increases: While Florida doesn’t have rent control, landlords must provide adequate notice before increasing rent, typically at least 30 days for month-to-month leases. This ensures tenants have ample time to decide whether to continue the lease or seek alternative housing.
  • Respecting Tenant Privacy: Landlords cannot enter a rented property without giving proper notice, usually 12 to 24 hours, unless there’s an emergency. This respects the tenant’s right to privacy and quiet enjoyment of the property.
  • Non-discrimination: Landlords cannot discriminate against potential tenants based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, or national origin. Fair housing laws ensure that all tenants have equal access to housing opportunities.

It’s essential for both landlords and tenants to be aware of these obligations. While landlords must ensure they adhere to them, tenants should know their rights to ensure they are treated fairly and legally in all rental situations.

Due to our current caseload, our office simply does not the have the resources
needed to dedicate to any additional tenant legal matters.
Any tenant-specific legal matters should be referred to the following organization:
Lawyer Referral Service Online (available 24/7) — https://www.floridabar.org/public/lrs/
or Phone (800) 342-8011 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The opinions in this post are solely those of the author. The author takes full responsibility for the content. Like all blog posts, this is offered for general information purposes and does not constitute legal advice.