Ryan S. Shipp, Esquire here from 954 Eviction Attorneys.
In Florida, it’s not uncommon for tenants to try to withhold rent, claiming that the property has become uninhabitable or that you, the landlord, have failed to make necessary repairs. While these situations can be frustrating, it’s important to know exactly what the law says and how to respond.
Under §83.51, of the Florida Statutes, landlords are legally required to maintain their rental properties in compliance with applicable housing, building, and health codes. This includes making sure that essential services—like plumbing, air conditioning, heating, and running water—are in working order. When a tenant believes that a landlord hasn’t met these obligations, §83.56, of the Florida Statutes, allows the tenant to deliver what’s called a “7-Day Notice to Withhold Rent.”
If you receive such a notice, take it seriously. The tenant is essentially alleging that you breached your statutory duty to maintain the property. As soon as you receive the notice, you should document your response immediately, schedule any necessary repairs, and provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering the property, as required by §83.53, of the Florida Statutes. Always keep detailed records of your communication, maintenance requests, and repair efforts.
If you ignore the notice or fail to make timely repairs, the tenant could have legal grounds to reduce rent payments, terminate the lease, or even raise defenses in an eviction case. However, by acting quickly, documenting your repairs, and showing good faith compliance, you take away the tenant’s argument and protect your right to collect rent in full.
At 954 Eviction Attorneys, we help landlords throughout all 67 Florida counties respond to 7-day notices, enforce their rights under Chapter 83, Part II of the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, and defend against improper rent withholding claims. We understand how stressful and time-sensitive these issues can be—and our flat-fee services make the process efficient and affordable.
If you need help responding to a tenant’s 7-day notice or any other landlord-tenant issue, call 954 Eviction Attorneys today at 954.323.2529. We’ll help you regain control of your property and keep your rental business compliant with Florida law.
