Landlord Not Returning Security Deposit in Florida: What to Do

Your Florida Landlord Missed the Deadline: Here's What to Do

Under Florida Statutes §83.49, your landlord had 15 days to return your deposit after move-out. If that window has passed, you have legal options, and the law is on your side.

1
Check the deadline
Your Florida landlord had 15 days after your move-out date to return your deposit. If that window has passed without a full refund or a proper itemized statement, you likely have a valid claim.
2
Gather your documentation
Collect your lease, move-in and move-out photos, any written communications with your landlord, and your forwarding address record. The more documentation you have, the stronger your position.
3
Run a free analysis
Use our free tool to input your situation. We'll analyze your claim against Florida Statutes §83.49 and tell you exactly what violations occurred, how much you may be owed, and how much time you have left to act.
4
Send a demand letter
A formal demand letter citing the specific statute often prompts landlords to pay without going to court. Our $19 package generates a personalized letter referencing Florida Statutes §83.49 and calculates exactly what you're owed.
5
File in small claims if needed
If your landlord ignores the demand letter, Florida small claims court handles disputes up to $8,000. No attorney is required. Filing fees are typically under $100, and judges regularly rule in tenants' favor on clear deadline violations.

Florida Penalty: Potential full deposit recovery

Under F.S. §83.49(3)(a), a landlord who misses the deadline forfeits the right to any deductions, even ones that might otherwise have been valid.

Legal Reference

Wear & Tear Protected

Primary StatuteFlorida Statutes §83.49

Penalty StatuteF.S. §83.49(3)(a)

Small Claims Limit$8,000

Statute of Limitations5 years

Questions

Common questions answered.

Your Florida landlord has 15 days after your move-out date to return your security deposit along with an itemized statement of any deductions. This deadline is set by Florida Statutes §83.49.

If your landlord misses the 15-day deadline, they forfeit the right to withhold any portion of your deposit under F.S. §83.49(3)(a), even deductions that might otherwise have been valid.

No. Florida law under Florida Statutes §83.49 explicitly prohibits landlords from deducting for normal wear and tear. This includes faded paint, minor scuffs, small nail holes, and carpet thinning from regular use. Deductions must be for actual damage beyond what normal living causes.

If the 15-day deadline under Florida Statutes §83.49 has passed, you can: (1) send a written demand letter citing the statute, (2) file in Florida small claims court (up to $8,000), or (3) contact a tenant rights organization. Most cases settle after a formal demand letter.

No. Once the 15-day deadline has passed under Florida Statutes §83.49, your landlord cannot retroactively extend it. The penalties for missing the deadline apply regardless of the landlord's reasons.

Florida Landlord Not Returning Security Deposit

Your Florida Landlord Missed the Deadline: Here's What to Do

Florida Penalty: Potential full deposit recovery

Common questions answered.

Find Out What Your Florida Landlord May Owe You.