Florida Security Deposit Return Deadline
Florida landlords have 15 days (no deductions) or 30 days (with itemized notice). Free calculator with Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3).
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Book a DemoFlorida security deposit return deadline at a glance
Florida landlords have a two-tier deadline under Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3): 15 days to return the full deposit if no deductions are claimed, or 30 days with a written itemized notice of deductions if any portion is withheld. Missing the 30-day window forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit.
How the 15-day and 30-day windows work in Florida
Within 15 days after the tenant vacates: if the landlord does not intend to claim any deductions, the full deposit must be returned. If the landlord intends to deduct any amount, they must send written notice by certified mail to the tenant's last known address within 30 days, specifying the amount to be retained and the reasons. The tenant has 15 days to object in writing.
What happens if a Florida landlord misses the deadline
Failure to provide the required written notice within 30 days forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit. The tenant can sue to recover the full amount plus court costs and attorney fees. The forfeiture rule is the primary penalty mechanism in Florida (no statutory multiplier like Texas or Colorado).
Florida-specific rules worth knowing
Florida does not cap security deposits at a specific multiple of rent. Most Florida landlords charge one month's rent. The deposit must be held in either a separate non-interest-bearing account at a Florida bank, a separate interest-bearing account (with interest paid to the tenant or applied), or as a surety bond. The landlord must disclose the holding method in writing within 30 days of receiving the deposit.
How to use this calculator
Enter the move-out date, forwarding address date, and deposit amount. The calculator returns Florida's 15/30-day deadlines and your days remaining. Use it to schedule the deduction documentation, written itemization (certified mail), and check delivery before the 30-day clock expires.
Frequently asked questions about Florida security deposits
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Florida?
15 days if no deductions are claimed; 30 days with a written itemized notice if deductions are claimed (Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)). Missing the 30-day window forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit.
What is the penalty if a Florida landlord misses the deposit deadline?
Forfeiture of the right to retain any portion of the deposit. The tenant can sue to recover the full amount plus court costs and attorney fees. Florida does not impose a statutory multiplier penalty.
Does Florida require an itemized deduction notice?
Yes, when any deductions are claimed. The notice must be sent by certified mail to the tenant's last known address within 30 days of move-out, specifying the amount retained and the reasons. The tenant has 15 days to object in writing.
Where must a Florida landlord hold the security deposit?
One of three methods: separate non-interest-bearing account at a Florida bank, separate interest-bearing account (interest paid to or applied for tenant), or as a surety bond. The method must be disclosed in writing within 30 days of receiving the deposit.
Is there a maximum security deposit in Florida?
No statutory cap on amount. Most Florida landlords charge one month's rent. Local ordinances generally do not impose deposit caps (Florida state law preempts most rental ordinances).
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