This is not financial advice. Everything below is strictly Belloise Realty’s opinion and general information, not a recommendation for your situation.
Not every owner wants the work of nightly guests. Renting a condo or home year-round to one tenant can be simpler, and in many buildings it’s the only option the association allows. Florida’s landlord-tenant law sets clear rules on deposits, entry and notices. Here are the basics.
Key takeaways
- Florida’s residential landlord-tenant law is Part II of Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes.
- After a tenant moves out, a landlord has 15 days to return the deposit, or 30 days to give written notice of a claim on it.
- Entry for repairs needs reasonable notice, at least 24 hours, between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
- Many condo associations require tenant approval and set minimum lease terms.
Long-term vs vacation rental
| Annual lease | Vacation rental | |
|---|---|---|
| Guests | One tenant household | Many short stays |
| Taxes on rent | Generally no transient taxes on leases over six months | 13% on stays of six months or less in Pinellas |
| Licensing | Usually no DBPR vacation rental license | DBPR license in most cases |
| Furnishing and cleaning | Often unfurnished, tenant cleans | Fully furnished, cleaned between stays |
| Association rules | Often allowed with approval | Often restricted |
Security deposits
- Hold the deposit as Florida law requires and tell the tenant in writing how it’s held.
- At move-out, return it within 15 days if you’re not making a claim.
- If you are, send written notice by certified mail within 30 days explaining the claim.
- The tenant then has 15 days to object.
Entry and notices
- Repairs: reasonable notice of at least 24 hours, entry between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
- Emergencies: entry is allowed at any time to protect the property.
- Ending a month-to-month tenancy: Florida requires written notice, so check the statute for the current period.
Our tip: Screen tenants consistently and in line with fair housing law, and use a written lease. A property manager can handle this for you. See our property management page.
Our opinion
In our view, annual leasing suits owners who value steady occupancy and less day-to-day work, and buildings where nightly rentals aren’t allowed. Vacation renting can bring more income in strong seasons but costs more to run. Compare both in our rental strategy guide, and check your building’s rules in our short-term rental rules.
Not financial advice: This is not financial advice. It is strictly our opinion, for general information only. Talk to a licensed financial adviser, accountant or attorney before making investment decisions.
Want to talk through a rental plan? Contact us.
Sources
- Florida Statutes, section 83.49, deposits.
- Florida Statutes, section 83.53, landlord’s access.
- Florida Statutes, Chapter 83, Part II, residential tenancies.
- Florida Department of Revenue, sales and use tax, rentals of more than six months.