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When Your Tenant Refuses to Vacate: Legal Options for Landlords

Are you a landlord in Florida? It can be complicated. Ideally, you will not have any problems getting tenants into—or out of—your property. Unfortunately, that is not always what happens. You may be wondering: What legal options do I have available if my tenant refuses to vacate the property in violation of the lease? The short answer is that you have the right to seek eviction and, potentially, recover double rent for the offending period. Here, our Coral Gables landlord rights attorney provides a more detailed overview of the most important things that you should know about your legal options if your tenant refuses to vacate in Florida. 

Know Your Rights: You Can Evict a Tenant Who Should Not Be on the Property

As a residential or commercial landlord in Florida, it is imperative to be well-versed in your rights. First and foremost, it is important to emphasize the basics: Landlords can evict a tenant who has no right to be on their property. The basis for an eviction could include the following: 

  • The expiration of the lease; 
  • Non-payment of rent; and/or
  • Violation of other lease terms. 

The Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs the relationship between landlords and tenants. As a landlord, you have the right to regain possession of your property, but it is essential to follow the legal procedures set forth by Florida law.

Florida Prohibits Landlord Self-Help Evictions

While you do have the right to evict a tenant who should not be on the property, it is absolutely vital that you recognize that Florida prohibits landlords from taking eviction matters into their own hands. These are known broadly as “self-help” evictions. In other words, a landlord in Florida cannot forcibly remove a tenant, change the locks, shut off utilities, or take any other action to force the tenant out without going through the legal eviction process. Engaging in self-help eviction actions can lead to serious legal consequences—and it could make it harder to get back your property. 

How to Prepare and Take Action to Evict a Tenant Who Refuses to Vacate

Are you ready to take action to evict a tenant in Fort Lauderdale or elsewhere in South Florida to remove a tenant that refuses to vacate your property? You need to take the proper steps to put yourself in the best position to navigate the eviction process in an efficient and effective manner. Remember, evicting a tenant in Florida requires a carefully executed set of steps to ensure compliance with the law. Here are seven steps to take to evict a tenant in Florida: 

  • Step 1: Ensure Valid Grounds for Eviction: Before proceeding, make sure that you have valid legal grounds for eviction, such as non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms, or expiration of the lease.
  • Step 2: Provide Written Notice: Depending on the grounds for eviction, you must provide the tenant with a written notice. For non-payment of rent, a three-day notice is required, whereas other lease violations generally require a seven-day notice.
  • Step 3: File an Eviction Lawsuit: If the tenant does not vacate the premises within the notice period, you must file a complaint for eviction with the county court. Ensure you have all necessary documents and evidence.
  • Step 4: Attend the Court Hearing: Once you file the eviction lawsuit, a court date will likely be set. Be ready to attend the hearing. The best step that you can take is to hire an experienced Fort Lauderdale landlord-tenant attorney. Your lawyer will help present a strong case to finalize the eviction. 
  • Step 5: Obtain a Writ of Possession: If the court rules in your favor, the judge will issue a type of legal order called a final judgment for possession. That judgment is what you can use to get another legal document called a writ of possession. With a writ of possession, you have the authority to get the local sheriff to remove the tenant from your rental unit.
  • Step 6: Coordinate with the Sheriff: After obtaining the writ of possession, you will then need to coordinate with the county sheriff’s office. In the vast majority of cases, the local sheriff will need to give a 24-hour notice on the property before they remove the tenant. 
  • Step 7: Regain Possession of Your Property: Once the sheriff has removed the tenant, you can legally regain possession of your property. When you have possession of your Florida rental unit back, you can determine what to do next. 

Special Remedy for Landlords in Florida: Right to Seek Double Rent 

Beyond having the right to take legal action to evict a tenant who simply refuses to vacate, Florida landlords also have an additional remedy available under the law. You can seek double rent for all of the period that the tenant refuses to vacate. Under Florida law (Florida Statute § 83.58), a tenant who continues to occupy the premises without the landlord’s permission after the expiration of the lease term can be charged double the amount of the rent due on the property.

Florida’s double rent provision is designed to compensate landlords for the financial loss and inconvenience caused by a tenant’s unlawful occupancy. To seek double rent, landlords must provide a written demand to the tenant specifying the double rent claim. If the tenant refuses to comply, landlords can initiate legal proceedings to recover the double rent. It is a special remedy that can be a significant deterrent for tenants who might consider overstaying their lease and an essential tool for landlords seeking to regain control of their property in a timely manner. However, it is crucial for landlords to understand and comply with the legal requirements of this process to ensure a successful claim. An experienced Fort Lauderdale landlord rights attorney can help. 

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Landlord Rights Attorney Today

At Jacqueline A. Salcines, PA, our Florida landlord-tenant attorney is a skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced advocate for clients. If you have any specific questions or concerns about your legal options if your tenant refuses to vacate, we are more than ready to help. Call us at 305-669-5280 or contact us online for a strictly confidential, no-obligation consultation. With an office in Coral Gables, we represent residential and commercial landlords throughout South Florida. 

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EJECTMENT ACTION IN FLORIDA

FLORIDA EJECTMENT ATTORNEY

An Ejectment action refers to a lawsuit brought by a property owner who has someone residing in their property, without permission, and the individual will not leave voluntarily. The property owner, who is rightfully entitled to possession, must then remove the person who will not leave voluntarily. An Ejectment is different from an eviction because there is no lease or other document which establishes the persons right to be there. Different from an eviction action, persons in an ejectment action do not pay rent, have not signed a lease, and may have had the right to be on the property at some point but said right was terminated by the property owner. This lawsuit is known as an Ejectment.

Florida law allows for a legal action know as an Ejectment to remove a non-rent paying person living in your home, who has not signed a lease and has no title or interest in the property. Often times, this involves a person whom you have allowed to live in your home and who later refuses to leave when asked. Most commonly, this involves either a boyfriend or girlfriend, a family member or a friend who has been invited to stay in your home, who has for some reason become an unwelcome guest and refuses to leave when asked.

Once the ejectment lawsuit is filed, the defendant(s) will have 20 days to file a answer. If there is no answer filed within the required time period, then the owner is entitled to obtain a default, a default final judgment and the court will issue an order for the Writ of Possession, the document used by the sheriff to remove the person. If the person does file an answer, a hearing will be required and the court will determine rightful ownership. .

Ejectment actions may be very emotional, if they deal with family members or other loved ones who were once there with permission but now the permission has been terminated. If you have a guest who is no longer wanted, you should contact our office at (305) 669-5280 to review your situation and assist in getting your unwanted guest(s) out of your property.

Chapter 66, Florida Statutes- Ejectment, is the statute by which an unwanted guest or guests may be removed from your property.

The following is the Florida Ejectment Statute Chapter 66 as of 2016 :

CHAPTER 66- EJECTMENT
66.011 Common law ejectment abolished.
66.021 Procedure.
66.031 Verdict and judgment.
66.041 Betterment, petition.
66.051 Betterment, answer.

66.061 Betterment, trial and verdict.
66.071 Betterment, judgment for plaintiff.
66.081 Betterment, judgment for defendant.
66.091 Betterment, payment by plaintiff.
66.101 Betterment, payment by defendant.
66.011 Common law ejectment abolished.—In ejectment it is not necessary to have any fictitious parties. Plaintiff may bring action directly against the party in possession or claiming adversely.
History.—s. 1, ch. 999, 1859; RS 1511; GS 1966; RGS 3234; CGL 5040; s. 21, ch. 67 254.
Note.—Former s. 70.01.
66.021 Procedure.—
(1) LANDLORD NOT A DEFENDANT.—When it appears before trial that a defendant in ejectment is in possession as a tenant and that his or her landlord is not a party, the landlord shall be made a party before further proceeding unless otherwise ordered by the court.
(2) DEFENSE MAY BE LIMITED.—A defendant in an action of ejectment may limit his or her defense to a part of the property mentioned in the complaint, describing such part with reasonable certainty.
(3) WRIT OF POSSESSION; EXECUTION TO BE JOINT OR SEVERAL.—When plaintiff recovers in ejectment, he or she may have one writ for possession, damages and costs or, if the plaintiff elects, have separate writs for possession and damages.
(4) CHAIN OF TITLE.—Plaintiff with his or her complaint and defendant with his or her answer shall serve a statement setting forth chronologically the chain of title on which he or she will rely at trial. If any part of the chain of title is recorded, the statement shall set forth the names of the grantors and the grantees and the book and page of the record thereof; if an unrecorded instrument is relied on, a copy shall be attached. The court may require the original to be submitted to the opposite party for inspection. If the party relies on a claim or right without color of title, the statement shall specify how and when the claim originated and the facts on which the claim is based. If defendant and plaintiff claim under a common source, the statement need not deraign title before the common source.
(5) TESTING SUFFICIENCY.—If either party wants to test the legal sufficiency of any instrument or court proceeding in the chain of title of the opposite party, the party shall do so before trial by motion setting up his or her objections with a copy of the instrument or court proceedings attached. The motion shall be disposed of before trial. If either party determines that he or she will be unable to maintain his or her claim by reason of the order, that party may so state in the record and final judgment shall be entered for the opposite party.
History.—s. 21, ch. 67 254; s. 348, ch. 95 147.
66.031 Verdict and judgment.—
(1) VERDICT.—A verdict for plaintiff shall state the quantity of the estate of plaintiff, and describe the land by metes and bounds, lot number or other certain description.
(2) JUDGMENT.—The judgment awarding possession shall state the quantity of the estate and give a description of the land recovered in like manner.
History.—ss. 1, 2, ch. 3244, 1881; RS 1515; GS 1970; RGS 3238; CGL 5046; s. 21, ch. 67 254.
Note.—Former s. 70.05.
66.041 Betterment, petition.—If a judgment of eviction is rendered against defendant, within 60 days thereafter, or if he or she has appealed, within 20 days after filing the mandate affirming the judgment, defendant may file in the court in which the judgment was rendered a petition setting forth that:
(1) Defendant had been in possession and that he or she or those under whom defendant validly derived had permanently improved the value of the property in controversy before commencement of the action in which judgment was rendered;
(2) Defendant or those under whom defendant validly derives held the property at the time of such improvement under an apparently good legal or equitable title derived from the English, Spanish, or United States Governments or this state; or under a legal or equitable title plain and connected on the records of a public office or public offices; or under purchase at a regular sale made by an executor, administrator, guardian or other person by order of court; and
(3) When defendant made the improvements or purchased the property improved, he or she believed the title which he or she held or purchased to the land thus improved to be a good and valid title. The petition shall demand that the value of the improvements be assessed and compensation awarded to defendant therefor.
History.—RS 1516; GS 1971; RGS 3239; CGL 5047; s. 2, ch. 29737, 1955; s. 21, ch. 67 254; s. 349, ch. 95 147.
Note.—Former s. 70.06.
66.051 Betterment, answer.—The plaintiff in the judgment of eviction may file written defenses to the petition within 20 days after service of the petition.
History.—RS 1517; GS 1972; RGS 3240; CGL 5048; s. 14, ch. 29737, 1955; s. 21, ch. 67 254.
Note.—Former s. 70.07.
66.061 Betterment, trial and verdict.—If an answer is filed, trial shall be on the issues made. If no answer is filed, trial shall be ex parte, but defendant is required to prove every allegation of the petition. If the jury (or if a jury is waived, the court) finds in favor of defendant, it shall assess:
(1) The value of the land at the time of the assessment, irrespective of the improvements put upon the land by defendant or those under whom he or she derives, and if any, the injury done to the land by defendant or those under whom he or she derives.
(2) The value of the permanent improvements at the time of the assessment.
(3) The injury, if any, done to the land by defendant or those under whom he or she derives.
(4) The value of the use of the land by defendant between the time of the judgment in ejectment and the time of the assessment or if defendant has been evicted from or has surrendered the premises, from the time of the judgment to the time of the surrender or eviction. The findings shall be specified separately on each of these matters.
History.—RS 1518; GS 1973; RGS 3241; CGL 5049; s. 2, ch. 29737, 1955; s. 21, ch. 67 254; s. 350, ch. 95 147.
Note.—Former s. 70.08.
66.071 Betterment, judgment for plaintiff.—On rendition of the verdict the clerk shall ascertain whether the balance of the last three assessments (that is, of the value of the improvements, the extent of the injury and the value of the use of land), is in favor of plaintiff or defendant and ascertain the amount of the balance; if the verdict is in favor of plaintiff, judgment shall be rendered against defendant for costs, whether the balance of the assessments is in favor of plaintiff or defendant; but if the balance of the assessments is in favor of plaintiff, he or she shall have a judgment for costs in addition to the judgment for the balance.
History.—RS 1519; GS 1974; RGS 3242; CGL 5050; s. 21, ch. 67 254; s. 351, ch. 95 147.
Note.—Former s. 70.09.
66.081 Betterment, judgment for defendant.—If the verdict is in favor of defendant and the balance of assessments is also in defendant’s favor, a judgment for costs shall be entered against plaintiff, and a further judgment that unless plaintiff pays or secures as hereinafter provided the amount of the balance of assessments against him or her within 20 days, defendant may pay or secure to plaintiff the value of the land as assessed.
History.—RS 1520; GS 1975; RGS 3243; CGL 5051; s. 21, ch. 67 254; s. 352, ch. 95 147.
Note.—Former s. 70.10.

66.091 Betterment, payment by plaintiff.—The plaintiff may pay the balance in cash or may give defendant a bond with surety to be approved by the clerk, conditioned to pay said balance in two equal annual installments, with interest at 6 percent per annum to defendant. If plaintiff shall pay the sum within 20 days, or if the payment of the bond is received, satisfaction of the judgment shall be entered and all rights conferred on defendant by the judgment terminate.
History.—RS 1521; GS 1976; RGS 3244; CGL 5052; s. 21, ch. 67 254.
Note.—Former s. 70.11.
66.101 Betterment, payment by defendant.—If plaintiff does not pay or secure the sum within 20 days, within 20 days thereafter defendant may pay to plaintiff the value of the land as assessed or give plaintiff a bond with surety, to be approved by the clerk, conditioned to pay plaintiff the value in two equal annual installments, with 6 percent interest; or if plaintiff fails to pay the bond given by him or her when it becomes due, for 20 days after the expiration of the time fixed in the bond for payment, defendant shall again have the privilege of paying to plaintiff in cash the value of the land assessed. On the payment of the sum to plaintiff at any of the times hereinbefore mentioned, title to the land shall vest in defendant and plaintiff or those holding under him or her shall give defendant a deed to the land, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances, and if defendant has been evicted from or has surrendered the property, it shall be restored to him or her by order of court on motion.
History.—RS 1522; GS 1977; RGS 3245; CGL 5053; s. 21, ch. 67 254; s. 353, ch. 95 147.
Note.—Former s. 70.12.

If you wish to file an action for Ejectment, Eviction or Unlawful Detainer, contact attorney Jacqueline A. Salcines, a Florida ejectment attorney, today to discuss your case or schedule a consultation. Contact us at (305) 669.5280 or by email at J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

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LANDLORD TENANT – TENANT TERMINATION LETTERS

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SOUTH FLORIDA LANDLORD TENANT LAWYERS

TENANT TERMINATION LETTER

Allowing a tenant to remain in a property after the natural expiration of the lease term, often results in the Residential Lease converting into a  month to month residential lease.  Not all leases have a termination clause that requires either party to terminate in writing or to extend.  Rather, the leases are silent or state that if the tenant remains after the last day of the lease, it becomes a month to month lease, with a termination at will (that is, at the discretion and election of either the tenant or the landlord).

The issue arises, however, when the tenant stays on another month or two to live out the security deposit.  This is not only illegal, but  places the landlord in a predicament if there are any damages to the property.  Cases like this almost always end up in litigation, in a landlord tenant eviction, for non payment.  Tenant thinks they have a month to live, landlord wants them out as soon as possible with protection for damages.

Landlord Tenant Statutes in Florida, Chapter §83, requires that if a tenant remains in possession after the natural expiration of the residential lease, the Landlord must send a Termination of Tenancy Letter.  That letter requires certain time frames for removal. For example, a month to month tenant, must be given 15 days to move out.  If they do not move out after the 15th day, that does not mean the landlord can go in and remove them and the tenant’s possessions. Rather, that gives the Landlord permission to now file an eviction suit.

Any tenant that stays on past the termination of tenancy 15 days, is considered a “holdover” tenant and is liable for double rent to the landlord.  While this may appear to protect the landlord, often tenants are judgment proof and collecting the monies after they are gone is almost impossible.

The termination of tenancy letter to the tenant must contain certain language as required per statute.

At the Law Offices of Jacqueline A. Salcines, P.A., we have been assisting Landlords and tenants with landlord tenant actions for over 18 years.  Before you decide to write the letter yourself, contact us.  We will get it right the first time and process your case in the most efficient manner possible.

We are here to help and protect your rights. Allow us to go to work for you! We offer free phone consultations, and a no cost review of your case. 

Call us today.   305.669.5280 and see how we can help you.

About the Author:

Jacqueline A. Salcines, Esq is the Owner and Managing Partner of the Law Offices of Jacqueline A. Salcines, P.A. Real Estate and Business Law Group. With over 18 years experience including holding a dual degree in Accounting, her broad knowledge of LANDLORD TENANT LAW including giving numerous pro bono seminars for Legal Aid and Put Something Back project,  attorney Salcines serves to aggressively protect and defend our firm’s clients.

Call us today to set up a  free consultation to discuss your specific needs. We are here for you!

Main office 305 | 669 | 5280. Or email the attorney directly: J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

TRUST |  COMMITMENT  | RESULTS

Jacqueline A. Salcines

Jacqueline A. Salcines, Esq.

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.
706 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY
SECOND FLOOR
CORAL GABLES, FL 33146
TEL. 305 669 5280

Email:  J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

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MOLD REMEDIATION IN FLORIDA LANDLORD TENANT LEASES

SOUTH FLORIDA REAL ESTATE LAWYERS

LANDLORD TENANT LAW

Having a Mold “escape clause” in your lease is the ultimate parachute or protection for any landlord in Florida.  This clause, which is present in many leases, allows landlords to escape liability for any mold that grows in the property after the tenant takes possession.  Having this could mean the Landlord in a Florida landlord tenant lease could escape being responsible for thousands of dollars in property damages.

However, for the tenant, this mold clause is not very favorable.  If you suspect you have mold in your property and have contacted the landlord in an effort to remediate the mold and your request has fallen on deaf ears, there is recourse.  As a tenant, you have options.

Florida landlord tenant law is governed by Florida Statutes Chapter 83.  Chapter 83 makes the landlord responsible for providing habitable conditions in a property rented. This means air, water and conditions that do not cause health concerns.  This means mold!

Many residential landlord tenant leases also require notice to the landlord and opportunity to correct the issue, which could mean calling a mold remediation company to assess the existence of mold, type of mold and remove it.  Mold also causes severe property damages when spores attach to sofas, and clothing, aggravating the situation and out of pocket damages even more.

If you suspect you have mold in your real estate property, call an attorney right away.  Often if handled from the beginning, there are no delays and the issue can be resolved immediately.  We can review your lease at no cost to you and advise what is the best course of action.

At the Law Offices of Jacqueline A. Salcines, PA we have been representing landlords and tenants for over 17 years.  We are knowledgeable in all aspects of landlord tenant law and ready to assist you with your needs. Call today at (305) 669-5280 to schedule your legal consultation.

The Law Offices of Jacqueline Salcines offers cost effective services designed to meet your individual needs and requirements. For strong legal representation, call us at (305) 669-5280 today! Attorney Jacqueline Salcines  has been handling all types of real estate matters for over 17 years. If you have an issue with a residential lease,  commercial lease, landlord tenant law, real estate contract, title insurance, tax deeds, quiet title or any real estate issue, contact our probate and real estate attorney!

 Main office 305 | 669 | 5280. Or email the attorney directly: J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

TRUST |  COMMITMENT  | RESULTS

Jacqueline A. Salcines

Jacqueline A. Salcines

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.
706 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY
SECOND FLOOR
CORAL GABLES, FL 33146
TEL. 305 669 5280

Email:  J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

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PARTIAL PAYMENT OF RENT AND THE THREE DAY NOTICE – LANDLORD TENANT EVICTION

SOUTH FLORIDA

LANDLORD TENANT LAWYERS

House and lawAll residential Landlord Tenant actions under landlord tenant law in Florida are governed by Florida Statutes Chapter §83.  Landlord tenant law states that anytime a tenant is in default of the terms of the Lease, a written notice with seven days to cure the default is required from the Landlord. An exception is the failure to pay rent.  When a tenant fails to pay rent, the landlord is required to send a Three Day Notice to the tenant.  The tenant is then required to remit payment to the landlord within three days.

Florida landlord tenant statutes regarding the Three Day Notice however are extremely strict and require exact language, as well as exact dates. The three days can not include weekends or holidays and does not include the day it is posted.  The notice must also be posted on the tenant’s door or served with a process server.

If the landlord under a landlord tenant lease accepts payment after the posting of the three day notice, even if partial payment, then the THREE DAY NOTICE become null and void and the landlord can not evict or start the eviction procedure.  Rather, a revised three day notice is required and the mandatory three days waiting as well.

Once the eviction is filed, the tenant is then required to deposit in the court registry, the past due rent, and late fees.  If the eviction does not state the correct amounts due, the tenant can file a motion to determine rents, and have the judge make a determination of what amounts need to be deposited.

 

At the Law Offices of Jacqueline Salcines, PA, attorney Jacqueline Salcines has been a practicing landlord/tenant law, real estate and litigation attorney for the past 17 years.  She is well versed in Landlord Tenant law and has given many pro-bono lectures and seminars on the topic, including  for legal aid.  Allow us to protect your interests, whether you are a landlord or a tenant.  The first consultation is always free of charge. 

Call us today 305 669 5280

Visit us today at WWW.Salcineslaw.com or 

Email attorney Jacqueline Salcines directly at J.Salcines@salcineslaw.com

THE FIRST CONSULTATION IS ALWAYS FREE OF CHARGE.

TRUST |  COMMITMENT  | RESULTS

Jacqueline A. Salcines

Jacqueline A. Salcines

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.
706 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY
SECOND FLOOR
CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA 33146
TEL: 305 | 669 | 5280
DIRECT EMAIL:  J.SALCINES@SALCINESLAW.COM
 
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MOLD ISSUES IN FLORIDA LANDLORD TENANT LEASES

SOUTH FLORIDA REAL ESTATE LAWYERS

LANDLORD TENANT LAW

Mold is a recurring issue in South Florida, specially  during the summer months. 

New Florida Bar forms in residential landlord tenant leases now include mold waivers, which require the tenant to inspect the property and consent to its condition prior to moving in and allows the Landlord to be off the hook if mold arises during the landlord tenant relationship.  While not all mold is dangerous to our health, mold can cause severe property damage with spores attaching to clothes and furniture.  One recent mold case handled by our firm resulted in severe asthma and emphysema symptoms to the tenants minor child, resulting in thousand in medical bills, hotel bills and long term care.

Florida landlord tenant law is governed by Florida Statutes Chapter 83.  Chapter 83 makes the landlord responsible for providing habitable conditions in a property rented. This means air, water and conditions that do not cause health concerns. However, if you are one of the many tenants that signed these mold riders to the residential  lease agreement, you may have permitted the landlord to escape liability since the landlord can say it was the tenants failure to maintain the air conditioner or the water conditions in the property. 

Mold issues that arise during a landlord tenant residency must be communicated in writing to the landlord and allow the landlord 7 days to remediate the problem. This  could mean calling a mold remediation company to assess the existence of mold, type of mold and remove it. Since  mold spreads quickly when the conditions (humidity, lack of air flow, dark damp growing conditions), it is crucial to address it immediately when it is first visible.

If you suspect you have mold in your real estate property, call attorney Jacqueline Salcines right away.  Often if handled from the beginning, there are no delays and the issue can be resolved immediately.  We can review your lease at no cost to you and advise what is the best course of action.

At the Law Offices of Jacqueline A. Salcines, PA we have been representing landlords and tenants for over 17 years.  We are knowledgeable in all aspects of landlord tenant law and ready to assist you with your needs. Call today at (305) 669-5280 to schedule your legal consultation.

The Law Offices of Jacqueline Salcines offers cost effective services designed to meet your individual needs and requirements. For strong legal representation, call us at (305) 669-5280 today! Attorney Jacqueline Salcines  has been handling all types of real estate matters for over 17 years. If you have an issue with a residential lease,  commercial lease, landlord tenant law, real estate contract, title insurance, tax deeds, quiet title or any real estate issue, contact our probate and real estate attorney!

 Main office 305 | 669 | 5280. Or email the attorney directly: J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

TRUST |  COMMITMENT  | RESULTS

Jacqueline A. Salcines

Jacqueline A. Salcines

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.
706 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY
SECOND FLOOR
CORAL GABLES, FL 33146
TEL. 305 669 5280

Email:  J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

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LANDLORD TENANT MOLD ISSUES IN SOUTH FLORIDA

SOUTH FLORIDA REAL ESTATE LAWYERS

LANDLORD TENANT LAW

Whether you are a tenant in South Florida housing that is experiencing mold, or a landlord in South Florida being told by your tenant that the property has mold, the solution is not always easy.  Living in such close proximity to the water, it is almost impossible to not find a property in South Florida that does not have the presence of mold. And not all mold is dangerous, life threatening or hazardous.  However, some mold is and that is where things can get very scary.

Florida landlord tenant law is governed by Florida Statutes Chapter 83.  Chapter 83 makes the landlord responsible for providing habitable conditions in a property rented. This means air, water and conditions that do not cause health concerns. However, many residential leases contain clauses that opt out of Florida landlord tenant law Chapter 83, and the tenant signs that he accepts the property as is and that at the time of signing there is no  mold.

Many residential landlord tenant leases also require notice to the landlord and opportunity to correct the issue, which could mean calling a mold remediation company to assess the existence of mold, type of mold and remove it.  Mold also causes severe property damages when spores attach to sofas, and clothing, aggravating the situation and out of pocket damages even more.

If you suspect you have mold in your real estate property, call an attorney right away.  Often if handled from the beginning, there are no delays and the issue can be resolved immediately.  We can review your lease at no cost to you and advise what is the best course of action.

At the Law Offices of Jacqueline A. Salcines, PA we have been representing landlords and tenants for over 17 years.  We are knowledgeable in all aspects of landlord tenant law and ready to assist you with your needs. Call today at (305) 669-5280 to schedule your legal consultation.

The Law Offices of Jacqueline Salcines offers cost effective services designed to meet your individual needs and requirements. For strong legal representation, call us at (305) 669-5280 today! Attorney Jacqueline Salcines  has been handling all types of real estate matters for over 17 years. If you have an issue with a residential lease,  commercial lease, landlord tenant law, real estate contract, title insurance, tax deeds, quiet title or any real estate issue, contact our probate and real estate attorney!

 Main office 305 | 669 | 5280. Or email the attorney directly: J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

TRUST |  COMMITMENT  | RESULTS

Jacqueline A. Salcines

Jacqueline A. Salcines

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.
706 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY
SECOND FLOOR
CORAL GABLES, FL 33146
TEL. 305 669 5280

Email:  J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

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FLORIDA LANDLORD TENANT LAWYER

SOUTH FLORIDA

LANDLORD/TENANT LAWYERS

The relationships between landlords and tenants can involve a host of complex issues. It’s a contractual relationship, usually formalized with a written rental agreement or “lease.”  Like all relationships, sometimes things go sour.

At the Law Offices of Jacqueline A. Salcines, PA we bring over 17 years experience  in resolving landlord tenant disputes, both for residential and commercial contracts in Miami and throughout South Florida.

Our Landlord Tenant services include:

  • Failure to pay rent
  • Damage to property
  • Nuisance
  • Violations of lease provisions
  • Premises liability
  • Maintenance/Repair
  • Eviction proceedings
  • Holdover tenants
  • Abandoned property
  • Security deposit disputes

A well-crafted lease with clear terms can often make resolving disagreements easier and faster. There are many situations in which an attorney can help guide you to an efficient and cost-effective solution. Sometimes, litigation may not be necessary. A few strongly-worded notices from your lawyer can be a powerful motivator.

Contact the Law Offices of Jacqueline A. Salcines, PA today at (305) 669-5280 to schedule your legal consultation.

The Law Offices of Jacqueline Salcines offers cost effective services designed to meet your individual needs and requirements. For strong legal representation, call us at (305) 669-5280 today! Attorney Jacqueline Salcines  has been handling all types of landlord tenant matters for 17 years.

 Main office 305 | 669 | 5280. Or email the attorney directly: J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

TRUST |  COMMITMENT  | RESULTS

Jacqueline A. Salcines

Jacqueline A. Salcines

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.
706 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY
SECOND FLOOR
CORAL GABLES, FL 33146
TEL. 305 669 5280

Email:  J.Salcines@Salcineslaw.com

 

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LANDLORD TENANT LAW – RETURN OF SECURITY DEPOSIT

EXPERIENCED LANDLORD/TENANT ATTORNEY

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.

House and lawAll residential Landlord Tenant actions in Florida are governed by Florida Statutes Chapter §83.  When a tenant stops paying the rent, the landlord is required to follow Florida Statutes Chapter 83 which sets forth the steps for collecting rent:

1.  Three Day Notice

2.   Filing of a lawsuit in eviction

3.   Serving the tenant with the 5-day summons and complaint

4.  Waiting for the tenant to answer or obtaining a default

5.  Enlisting the services of the Sheriff to execute the Writ of Possession

Many landlords believe that when a tenant vacates or has been evicted, they are entitled to retain the security deposit as a punishment or to recuperate lost rent.  This is absolutely false and against the law. Landlord Tenant law in Florida and Florida Statutes covering landlord tenant residential actions specifically require the Landlord to return the security deposit to the tenant by Certified Mail, at the last known address, within 30 days days of vacating the premises.  If the address has not been provided, then the property address will suffice. 

While some landlord tenant residential leases do permit it to be kept, of have liquidated damage clauses for early termination or abandonment, there are strict requirements under Florida Landlord Tenant law as to what steps a Landlord must follow if he or she intends to keep a portion of the security deposit, or all of it.  A statutory letter must be sent within the required time frame with an itemization of the exact amounts being kept and the reason for not returning it to the Tenant.

This letter is often never sent or if sent, the landlord writes it incorrectly. That is where the services of a knowledgeable landlord tenant lawyer come in.

 

At the Law Offices of Jacqueline Salcines, PA, attorney Jacqueline Salcines has been a practicing landlord/tenant law, real estate and litigation attorney for the past 17 years.  She is well versed in Landlord Tenant law and has given many pro-bono lectures and seminars on the topic, including  for legal aid.  Allow us to protect your interests, whether you are a landlord or a tenant.  The first consultation is always free of charge. 

Call us today 305 669 5280

Visit us today at WWW.Salcineslaw.com or 

Email attorney Jacqueline Salcines directly at J.Salcines@salcineslaw.com

THE FIRST CONSULTATION IS ALWAYS FREE OF CHARGE.

TRUST |  COMMITMENT  | RESULTS

Jacqueline A. Salcines

Jacqueline A. Salcines

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.
706 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY
SECOND FLOOR
CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA 33146
TEL: 305 | 669 | 5280
DIRECT EMAIL:  J.SALCINES@SALCINESLAW.COM
 
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DESALOJO EN LA FLORIDA – QUE PUEDE HACER UN DUENO DE PROPIEDAD CONTRA SU INQUILINO

 

House and lawTODO LOS CONTRATOS DE ARENDIMIENTO EN LA FLORIDA PARA RENTAR PROPIEDAD ESTA CONTROLADO  BAJO LAS PROVISIONES DE FLORIDA STATUTES CAPITULO §83.  DUENOS DE CASA, SI SE ENCUENTRAN CON UN INQUILINO QUE NO PAGA LA RENTA, TIENEN QUE CUMPLIR CON LAS LEYES Y NO PUEDEN TOMAR LA LEY DENTRO DE SUS PROPIAS MANOS.  ES DECIR, TIENEN QUE ENVIAR EL DOCUMENTO REQUERIDO NOMBRADO “THREE DAY NOTICE” AL INQUILINO PARA AVISAR DE LA RENTA QUE SE DEBE.  LOS REQUISITOS DE LOS THREE DAY NOTICES BAJO EL STATUTE §83.56 SON BIEN ESTRICTO.  SI EL THREE DAY NOTICE SE HACE INCORRECTAMENTE, TIENE QUE COMENZAR DE UN PRINCIPIO.

DESPUES DEL THREE DAY NOTICE SE MANDA LA DEMANDA DE DESAOLOJO QUE REQUIREN QUE EL INQUILINO DEPOSITE EN LA CORTE LA RENTA DENTRO DE 5 DIAS. SI NO LA DEPOSITAN, ENTONCES EL DUENO TIENE DERECHO GANAR EL CASO FRENTE EL JUEZ, OBTENER UN FALLO JUDICIAL CONTRA EL IINQUILINO AND CONTRATAR EL SHERIFF PARA QUE LOS QUITE CON UN WRIT OF POSSESSION.

LA LEY DE DESALOJO ES BIEN ESTRICTA Y LOS INQUILINOS SABEN COMO MANEJARLA BIEN PARA QUEDARSE LO MAS TIEMPO POSIBLE.

ES BUEN CONSEJO CONTRACTAR A UN ABOGADO PARA QUE LE MANEJE EL DESAOLOJO PARA QUE NO TENGA NINGUN ERROR O TIEMPO PERDIDO.

 

En las Oficinas de la abogada Jacqueline Salcines, PA, la abogada Jacqueline Salcines tiene mas de 16 anos ejerciendo ley de bienes raices y desalojo. Permita que nuestra experiencia sea utilizada para protejerlo a Usted.

 

Llamenos hoy 305 669 5280

O, visite nuestra pagina web  WWW.Salcineslaw.com or 

Correo electronico  Jacqueline Salcines directly at J.Salcines@salcineslaw.com

PRIMERA CONSULTA SIEMPRE ES GRATUITA

TRUST |  COMMITMENT  | RESULTS

Jacqueline A. Salcines

Jacqueline A. Salcines

JACQUELINE A. SALCINES, ESQ.
706 S. DIXIE HIGHWAY
SECOND FLOOR
CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA 33146
TEL: 305 | 669 | 5280
DIRECT EMAIL:  J.SALCINES@SALCINESLAW.COM
 
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