Leasing property in Orlando requires basic knowledge about the laws that cover rental properties and tenant-landlord relationships. Real estate lease contracts are governed by the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which contains the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants that enter these agreements. Read on to get started with the basic tenant laws in Orlando that you need to know.
Reasonable Conditions and Code Compliance
It the responsibility of a landlord to furnish a unit that is safe and meets housing code requirements. The landlord is required by law to rent habitable units with furnishings and appliances in working condition. If the landlord fails to take care of important repairs, such as those involving heating, plumbing, or power-related concerns, the tenant is allowed by law to withhold the rent until the needed repairs are done. Tenants also have the right of peaceful possession which is the right to possess and use the rented property free from any interference by the landlord. This means that the landlord cannot enter the rented unit of the tenants without prior permission.
Landlords are required by law to disclose certain information to tenants prior to or during the tenancy period. This includes the name and address of the landlord, details on how the security deposit will be kept, amount of rent, and rental collection manner and schedules.
Security Deposit
The law states that the landlord must keep the security deposit in a bank account set for that purpose. This is to avoid illegally comingling security deposits with the landlord’s assets and to make sure that he or she does not use the security deposit for personal gain. The tenant also has the right to receive a portion of interest gained if the deposit is placed in an interest-bearing account. Tenants have the right to get their security deposit back within 15 days after moving out.
Written Notice
Landlords are required by law to serve a written eviction notice to tenants for failure to comply with tenancy obligations. The 3-day eviction notice is often served for non-payment of rent and gives the tenant the option to pay the rent in three days or vacate the property. The 7-day eviction notice can be used on tenants who violated the rental contract, building codes, or local statutes. For example, the landlord can send a 7-day eviction notice to a tenant who is keeping live animals inside the rented unit against building policy.
Compliance with Building and Housing Codes
While landlords are required to keep the units in habitable conditions, tenants are likewise required to comply with building and housing codes. Tenants must maintain the rented units without damage except for the usual wear and tear. Otherwise, the security deposit may be used to cover any damage arising outside of ordinary use.
Familiarity with rental laws in Orlando helps maintain smooth relationships between landlords and tenants. If you are planning on leasing a property today, brush up on the basic laws so you know what your rights and obligations are.
