ARE YOU A VICTIM OF A SELF-HELP EVICTION IN FLORIDA?
A self-help Florida eviction is when you (the “tenant”) are unable to pay your rent or you possibly violate a non-monetary term in your lease, and as a result, your landlord shuts off your utilities, changes the locks, or takes matters into their own hands by some other means without use of the court system. This behavior is strictly prohibited by Florida Statute 83.67, and allows for consequential damages in the event you are successful in suing your landlord for an unlawful, self-help eviction. It does not matter who pays the actual utility bill or whose name is on the bill.
Regardless of the situation, a landlord has to go through the complete eviction process when attempting to remove a non-compliant tenant, or face serious financial consequences. A landlord who is found guilty of a self-help eviction is liable for actual or consequential damages or three months’ rent, whichever is greater, along with the tenant’s attorney’s fees and costs.
If you believe you are a victim of a self-help Florida eviction or a Florida constructive eviction, please call the experienced attorneys at 954 Eviction Attorneys, PLLC as soon as possible for your free consultation. Let our office fight for your rights as a tenant and make sure you are not being taken advantage of by a landlord who is breaking the law!