Florida Security Deposit Law: Deadlines & Penalties

Florida uses a two-track system. If the landlord isn't claiming any deductions, the deposit must be returned within 15 days after the rental agreement ends and the tenant moves out. If the landlord wants to keep any part, it must send written notice of its claim, and the reason for it, by certified mail or by agreed email within 30 days.

A landlord who doesn't send that notice within 30 days forfeits the right to make a claim against the deposit, though it can still sue separately for damages after returning the deposit. Once you receive a notice, you have 15 days to object in writing; otherwise the landlord may deduct the amount claimed and must send you the rest within 30 days of the notice.

Florida landlords must also hold deposits in a separate account at a Florida financial institution or post a surety bond, and landlords with five or more units must tell tenants in writing where the money is held within 30 days of receiving it. The side that wins a deposit case in court is entitled to court costs plus reasonable legal fees.