Security deposit law · Florida

Florida Security Deposit Law: How to Get Your Deposit Back

If you rent in Florida, the law gives you specific rights when you move out — a deadline for your landlord to return your deposit, rules on deductions, and a path to push back if they don't. Here's exactly how it works, and how to protect yourself.

Return deadline15 days
Governing statuteFla. Stat. § 83.49
Deposit limitNo statutory limit
Itemized deductionsRequired
Interest on depositNot required by statute
Last reviewedMay 2026

Florida-specific rules to know

Object in writing within 15 days of any landlord deduction notice — silence = forfeit. Landlord notice due within 30 days of move-out.

What Florida law requires your landlord to do

Under Fla. Stat. § 83.49, a Florida landlord generally must return your deposit within 15 days and provide a written, itemized list of any amounts withheld. They may not deduct for ordinary wear and tear — only for damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent, or other charges the lease and statute allow.

What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in Florida

  1. 1. Know your deadline

    In Florida, the return window is 15 days (Fla. Stat. § 83.49). Mark the date you moved out and count forward.

  2. 2. Send a written demand

    Email and mail a dated letter requesting your full deposit, referencing the 15-day deadline under Fla. Stat. § 83.49. Keep proof of delivery. Renter's Vault generates a Florida-specific letter with the right statute citation filled in.

  3. 3. Gather your evidence

    Move-in and move-out photos with timestamps and location are the difference between your word and theirs. Attach your photo record and any move-in checklist.

  4. 4. Escalate to small claims

    If the landlord misses the deadline or won't respond, you can file in small claims court. Bring your dated demand letter and photo evidence.

Free Florida dispute-letter guide

A clear, statute-cited demand letter resolves most deposit disputes without ever going to court. Renter's Vault builds a Florida letter for you — pre-filled with Fla. Stat. § 83.49, your deadline, and your deductions — in three escalating versions (first request, formal demand, and notice of intent to file).

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Florida security deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Florida?

Under Fla. Stat. § 83.49, a Florida landlord must return your security deposit within 15 days after you move out, along with an itemized statement of any deductions.

What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Florida?

Send a written demand letter that cites Fla. Stat. § 83.49 and the deadline, keep copies of all communication and your move-in/move-out photos, and if that fails you can file in small claims court. Many states allow extra damages when a landlord withholds a deposit in bad faith.

Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge for a deposit in Florida?

In Florida, the statutory deposit limit is: No statutory limit. Always confirm against the current statute, since limits and exceptions change.

Are there any special deposit rules in Florida?

Yes. Notable Florida rules: Object in writing within 15 days of any landlord deduction notice — silence = forfeit. Landlord notice due within 30 days of move-out.

This page is general information for tenants, not legal advice, and laws change. Always confirm the current text of Fla. Stat. § 83.49 or consult a local attorney or tenants' rights organization for your situation. Last reviewed May 2026.