In short: once you move out, a Florida landlord has 15 days to return your full deposit, or 30 days to send written notice of any claim. You have 15 days to object. A landlord who misses the 30 day notice loses the right to claim against the deposit.
The deadlines
| Situation | What the law requires |
|---|---|
| Landlord keeps none of the deposit | Return it, with any interest due, within 15 days of you moving out |
| Landlord wants to keep some or all of it | Send written notice of the claim and the reason within 30 days, by certified mail to your last known mailing address, or by email if you both signed an email notice addendum to the lease |
| You disagree with the claim | Object in writing within 15 days of receiving the notice |
| You do not object in time | The landlord may deduct the claim and must send the rest within 30 days of the notice. You can still take action later |
| Landlord misses the 30 day notice | They lose the right to claim against the deposit, though they can still sue separately for damages |
Florida Statutes section 83.49(3). The email option comes from section 83.505, in force since July 1, 2025, and only applies if both sides signed a separate addendum agreeing to email notices.
Before you move out
- Give your forwarding address in writing. The notice goes to your last known mailing address, so make sure your landlord has your new one. Email it and keep a copy.
- Read your lease. Check the notice period, any cleaning standard, and rules on carpets, nail holes, light bulbs or AC filters.
- Find your move in photos or inspection form. They show what was already worn or damaged when you arrived.
- Fix small damage you caused. Fill nail holes if your lease allows it, and replace anything you broke.
- Clean thoroughly. Dirt is one of the most common reasons for deductions. Use our move out checklist, or book a move out clean.
- Take dated photos and a video of every room after the clean, including inside the oven, fridge and cabinets.
- Return every key, fob and remote, and ask for a written receipt.
- Ask for a walkthrough with your landlord or manager, if they will do one.
Damage versus normal wear and tear
Deductions are meant for unpaid rent and for damage beyond normal wear and tear, not for the ordinary aging of a home. Faded paint, light scuffs and carpet worn by normal walking are usually wear and tear. Large stains, holes in walls, broken fixtures and heavy dirt or grease are more likely to be charged.
If you disagree with a claim
- Reply in writing within 15 days of receiving the notice, saying which charges you dispute and why. Keep a copy and proof of sending
- Send your photos, your move in form and any cleaning receipt
- Many disputes settle at this stage. If not, deposit disputes in Palm Beach County are usually heard in small claims court
- For advice on your situation, speak to a Florida attorney or the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change, and your lease may add terms.