Florida Security Deposit Laws: Limits, Return Deadlines, and Penalties

Florida's security deposit laws, codified in § 83.49 of the Florida Statutes, provide a detailed framework for how deposits must be held, returned, and disputed. While there is no cap on deposit amounts, the procedures for handling them are strict — and failure to comply can result in the landlord forfeiting the entire deposit.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general legal information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney in Florida for guidance specific to your situation. Information last verified: March 2026.

No Statutory Cap

Florida law places no limit on how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit. In practice, most landlords charge one to two months' rent.

Holding Requirements

Landlords must hold security deposits in one of three ways:

1. Separate non-interest-bearing account in a Florida banking institution.
2. Interest-bearing account in a Florida banking institution — the landlord must pay the tenant either 75% of the annualized average interest rate or 5% simple interest per year.
3. Surety bond posted with the clerk of the circuit court — the bond must be for the total amount of all deposits held and must pay 5% interest per year to the tenant.

Within 30 days of receiving the deposit, the landlord must notify the tenant in writing of how and where the deposit is being held, including the interest rate (if applicable).

Return Deadlines

Notice of Deductions

If the landlord intends to withhold any portion of the deposit, they must send a written notice by certified mail within 30 days containing:

• An itemized list of deductions.
• The specific amounts for each deduction.
• A statement that the tenant has 15 days to object in writing.

Tenant's Right to Object

The tenant has 15 days after receiving the landlord's notice to object in writing. If the tenant does not object within this period, the landlord may deduct the claimed amounts and return any remainder.

Permitted Deductions

Landlords may deduct for:

• Unpaid rent (including the last month's rent if not prepaid).
• Damage beyond normal wear and tear — the landlord must document the damage.
• Cleaning costs — only if the tenant left the premises in a condition below what was agreed.
• Early termination charges — if specified in the lease.

Deductions for normal wear and tear are not permitted.

Forfeiture for Non-Compliance

If the landlord fails to return the deposit or send the required notice within 30 days, the landlord forfeits the right to impose any claim on the deposit and must return the full amount. The tenant can sue for:

• The full deposit.
• Court costs and attorney's fees.

Security Deposit Alternatives (2023–2024)

Florida now allows landlords to offer a non-refundable monthly fee as an alternative to a traditional security deposit. Key points:

• The landlord cannot require both a deposit and the monthly fee.
• Installment payment plans for traditional deposits are also now permitted.
• The tenant must be given the choice between the traditional deposit and the alternative.

How Landager Helps

Landager automatically tracks security deposit holding methods, return deadlines, and certified mail notifications — ensuring you never miss the 30-day notice window and avoid forfeiture.

Back to Florida Landlord-Tenant Laws Overview.