Florida Real Estate Broker ExaminationReal Estate Brokerage ManagementMedium
A Florida real estate broker is managing a residential rental property. The tenant has moved out, and the broker, on behalf of the landlord, wishes to make a claim on the security deposit for damages exceeding normal wear and tear. According to Florida Statutes, within how many days must the broker send written notice to the former tenant of the landlord's intent to impose a claim on the security deposit?
- A7 days
- B60 days
- C30 days
- D15 days
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 30 days
Florida Statute 83.49(3)(a) requires that a landlord, or their authorized agent like a property manager/broker, must notify the tenant in writing within 30 days if they intend to impose a claim on the security deposit.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 7 days is the period for returning a security deposit if no claim is made and the lease does not specify otherwise.
- B. 60 days is not a statutory period related to security deposit claims in Florida.
- D. 15 days is the period for returning a security deposit if no claim is made and the lease does not specify otherwise.
Security Deposit Claim Notification
In Florida, landlords or their agents must notify a former tenant in writing within 30 days of their intent to claim any portion of the security deposit.
- Applies to residential rental properties.
- Notification must be in writing.
- Failure to send notice within 30 days forfeits the landlord's right to claim the deposit.
Memory trick: Claiming a deposit? Send notice within Thirty, or it's gone quickly!