Florida Security Deposit Law
Return deadline, statute, and penalties for Florida renters.
Return deadline
15 days
15 days if no claim is made; 30 days to send written notice of any claim by certified mail or email.
Penalty for late or wrongful withholding
Landlord forfeits the right to make deductions; full deposit owed plus attorney fees
Governing statute
Fla. Stat. § 83.49
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Check my Florida deadlineFlorida security deposit questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Florida?
Under Fla. Stat. § 83.49, a Florida landlord generally has 15 days to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions. 15 days if no claim is made; 30 days to send written notice of any claim by certified mail or email.
What happens if a Florida landlord returns the deposit late?
Landlord forfeits the right to make deductions; full deposit owed plus attorney fees. Courts usually decide whether a penalty applies, and many states require showing the landlord acted in bad faith.
Can a Florida landlord deduct from my deposit?
Landlords can generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, and must explain deductions in writing.
How do I demand my security deposit back in Florida?
Send your landlord a written demand letter that cites Fla. Stat. § 83.49, states the amount owed, and sets a deadline to pay. Send it by certified mail and keep a copy. If the landlord doesn't pay, the letter is useful evidence in small claims court.
Last reviewed October 21, 2026. Read the official text of Fla. Stat. § 83.49. This page is general information, not legal advice. See our terms of use.