Demanding Move-In Repairs in Florida: What Renters Should Know

Getting ready to move into a Florida rental home or apartment is exciting—but it's also important to make sure your new place is safe and habitable. Under Florida law, landlords must provide units that meet basic health and safety standards. If you discover issues before moving in, you have the right to request repairs from your landlord.

What Are Your Rights Before Move-In?

The Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects renters by requiring landlords to keep properties in a "fit and habitable condition." This means your unit must be free from dangerous defects, have working utilities, and meet housing codes.

Common Pre-Move-In Repair Requests

• Leaking plumbing or non-working faucets
• Electrical hazards or broken outlets
• Non-functioning air conditioning or heating
• Mold, pests, or water damage
• Broken windows, doors, or locks

Be aware: Cosmetic issues (like chipped paint or worn carpet) may not be required repairs, unless they affect health or safety.

Documenting Issues Before You Move In

Inspect your rental before signing the lease or getting the keys. Document any problems with photos, videos, and written notes. This can help prove the issue existed before you moved in. Some Florida landlords may offer a written move-in inspection checklist, but it’s not required by state law.

How to Demand Repairs Before Move-In

If you spot a problem, notify your landlord or property manager right away—in writing. According to Florida law, a written notice puts your request on record and starts the legal repair timeline.

• Send a detailed written notice describing each repair request.
• Include photos or videos when possible.
• Use email or certified mail to have proof of delivery.

Most landlords handle repairs quickly, but the law gives them 7 days after receiving notice to fix serious problems that affect habitability.

Official Notice to Landlord for Repairs

• Form Name: Notice to Landlord – Demand for Repairs (no official statewide number)
• When to Use: When serious problems in the rental unit need to be fixed before move-in (e.g., no working plumbing, dangerous wiring). This written notice protects your rights under the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
• Example: "Dear Landlord, I am scheduled to move into [Rental Address] on [Move-In Date]. During a walkthrough on [Date], I observed [describe problems]. Please make these repairs before my move-in date."
• Where to Find: While Florida does not require a standard form, sample templates and guidance are available from the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) under the "Tenant Issues" section.

If Repairs Are Not Completed Before Move-In

If the landlord does not fix serious health or safety issues within 7 days of your written notice, you may have the option to:

• Delay your move-in until repairs are finished
• Write a follow-up notice stating your intention to end the rental agreement if the issue is not resolved (using Florida Statute 83.56)
• Contact your local housing code enforcement office for help

If you never take possession of the property and the issues remain unfixed, you may not be obligated to proceed with the lease. However, you should always get legal advice before ending your agreement.

Key Steps for Renters: Demanding Repairs Before Move-In

• Inspect the property thoroughly before signing or moving in
• Document all problems in writing and with photos/videos
• Send prompt written notice to the landlord describing needed repairs
• Keep copies of all correspondence
• Wait 7 days for landlord response (for serious repairs)
• Seek help if repairs are not made—contact local authorities or consider your legal remedies

Being proactive about repairs helps ensure you move into a safe, habitable home and protects your security deposit later.

FAQs: Demanding Repairs Before Move-In in Florida

1. What if my landlord refuses to make necessary repairs before I move in?
   If a landlord does not fix serious issues after receiving your written notice, you may be able to cancel your lease or delay moving in. Contact local housing code enforcement or consider consulting legal resources.
2. Do I have to use a specific form for repair requests in Florida?
   No official state form is required; any clearly written notice that describes needed repairs and is delivered to the landlord is valid. Always keep a copy for your records.
3. How long does my landlord have to complete move-in repairs?
   For health or safety issues, Florida law generally gives the landlord up to 7 days after written notice to complete necessary repairs.
4. What can I do if I already paid rent but repairs are not finished?
   You should notify your landlord in writing again and request a timeline. If unresolved, you can seek mediation or file a complaint with your local county court.
5. Where do I file a dispute about pre-move-in repairs in Florida?
   Contact the Florida County Court—Landlord/Tenant Division, which handles these disputes.

Key Takeaways for Florida Renters

• Florida renters have the right to a safe and habitable home before moving in
• Always send written notice for pre-move-in repairs and keep documentation
• If critical repairs are not made within 7 days, renters may have legal options

Review the official tenancy legislation and county court procedures before making big decisions about your lease.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR): Landlords and Tenants — Tenant rights resources and sample letters
• Florida County Court—Landlord/Tenant Division — Filing disputes and court self-help
• Florida Bar Association: Landlord/Tenant Law — Find local legal aid services and advice
• HUD: Florida Tenant Rights — Federal resources and fair housing help

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1. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Florida Statutes Chapter 83)
2. Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation – Tenant Issues
3. Florida County Court—Landlord/Tenant Division

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