Florida Cure or Quit Notice: Rights and Steps for Renters

Facing a violation notice from your landlord in Florida can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with your rights and obligations. One common tool landlords use is the 'Cure or Quit' notice. This guide breaks down what a Cure or Quit notice means, how it works under Florida law, and what action steps you can take to protect yourself.

What Is a Cure or Quit Notice in Florida?

In Florida, a Cure or Quit notice is an official written warning from your landlord if you violate your lease—for example, by not paying rent on time or breaking a lease term (like having an unauthorized pet). The notice gives you a chance to "cure" (fix) the problem within a specific timeframe, or "quit" (move out) if you don't.

• Nonpayment of rent: Landlord must give a 3-day notice to pay rent or leave.
• Other lease violations: Landlord provides a 7-day notice to cure.

These notices are required before a landlord can file for eviction in court. The rules are set by the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

Types of Cure or Quit Notices in Florida

It's important to recognize which notice you've received, as the rules and response timelines differ.

3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit

• Given for nonpayment of rent.
• You have three business days (excluding weekends and court holidays) to pay the overdue rent or move out.

7-Day Notice to Cure Lease Violation

• Given for issues like unauthorized pets, repeated noise complaints, or improper use of the rental unit.
• You have seven days to fix the violation ("cure").
  If you do not, your landlord may begin the eviction process.

What Happens If You Don’t Cure?

If the violation is not fixed (or rent is not paid) within the notice period, the landlord can file a formal eviction complaint with the local court (county court in your area).

Your Rights When Receiving a Cure or Quit Notice

• The notice must clearly state what the violation is and give you the chance to fix it.
• You have the right to stay in your home and fix the violation within the time allowed.
• If you move out during the notice period, you may avoid an eviction filing on your record.
• If you believe the notice is incorrect or unjustified, you may try to resolve the matter with your landlord or seek legal help before any court proceedings begin.

Official Forms for Florida Cure or Quit Notices

3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit

• Form Name: 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate
• Used when you're behind on rent. Landlord or property manager serves this notice to demand payment within three days or require you to move out.
• See Florida Courts - 3-Day Notice Sample

7-Day Notice to Cure (Noncompliance with Lease)

• Form Name: 7-Day Notice of Noncompliance With Opportunity to Cure
• Given for breaches of lease other than nonpayment (e.g., unauthorized guests, unapproved pets).
• Landlord must specify what needs to be fixed.
• See Florida Courts - 7-Day Notice Sample

These sample forms can help you recognize if your landlord's notice is valid. Always check that your notice includes the correct timelines and info. More information and downloadable forms can always be found through the Florida Courts Self-Help Center.

What Happens After a Cure or Quit Notice?

If you cure the violation (fix the issue or pay rent), your tenancy continues as before. If not, the landlord may:

• File an eviction case at your local county courthouse
• Serve you with a court summons and complaint

You have the right to respond to the court if the landlord files for eviction. Find your local county court here.

How to Respond to a Cure or Quit Notice in Florida

Here are the typical steps for a Florida renter facing a Cure or Quit notice:

• Carefully read the notice and note the deadline
• Take action to cure (pay overdue rent, remove pet, or resolve lease violation)
• Let your landlord know in writing once you've fixed the issue
• Keep a copy of all communications and receipts
• If you disagree with the notice, consider speaking with a local legal aid or contacting mediation services

If you take no action and the landlord files an eviction, you will be served with court paperwork and must respond quickly to avoid losing your case automatically.

Tribunal and Legislation Links

• Residential tenancy matters in Florida are handled by the County Courts system. Find your local court via the Florida Courts Trial Courts Directory.
• The relevant legislation is the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Part II).

FAQ: Cure or Quit Notices for Florida Renters

1. What happens if I fix the problem listed in the Cure or Quit notice?
   If you remedy the violation within the notice period (for example, pay overdue rent or comply with the lease), your landlord cannot proceed with an eviction based on that notice.
2. Do I have to move out if I receive a Cure or Quit notice?
   No, you are given an opportunity to fix the problem. You only have to move out if you choose not to cure the violation or if an eviction is ordered by the court.
3. How many days do I have to respond to a 3-day notice to pay rent?
   You have three business days, not counting weekends or legal holidays, to pay the overdue rent or vacate.
4. How can I check if a notice from my landlord is valid?
   Check that your notice includes your name, address, the violation, cure deadline, and is served correctly. Refer to official forms or consult your local court for guidance.
5. Can my landlord evict me right after the notice period ends?
   No, after the notice period, your landlord must still file an official eviction case in county court. Only a judge can order you to move out.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Law Help – Free legal information and referrals across Florida
• Florida Bar – Landlord/Tenant Resources
• Florida Courts Self-Help Center
• For mediation and advice, contact local legal aid or your county court's self-help program

---

1. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Chapter 83, Part II
2. Florida State Courts – Self-Help Forms and Resources
3. Florida Courts – Find Your Local Court

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations