Florida Rent Stabilization Laws: What Renters Need to Know

Many renters in Florida are concerned about rising rents and want to know if any laws limit how much their rent can increase each year. This guide clearly explains how rent stabilization and rent control work in Florida, what laws apply, and what renters can do if they feel a rent increase is unfair or too high.

Is There Rent Stabilization or Rent Control in Florida?

Florida law currently does not provide statewide rent stabilization or rent control for residential properties. Unlike some other states, there are no annual caps on how much a landlord can raise rent unless a local government enacts specific, temporary measures in response to a housing emergency.

Why Doesn’t Florida Have Rent Stabilization?

Florida Statutes Section 125.0103 (Regulation of Rent, Chapter 125.0103) specifically prohibits local governments from enacting permanent rent control unless a clear, urgent housing emergency is officially declared by a city or county government. Even then, any rent control ordinance is limited to one year unless renewed, and must be approved by a majority of voters in a local referendum.¹

• No automatic annual rent increase limits apply to Florida rental housing.
• Landlords may increase rent as they see fit once your lease term ends, unless restricted by a (rare) local emergency ordinance.

Your Rights When Facing a Rent Increase in Florida

Even though Florida does not limit rent increases statewide, renters do have certain protections:

• Advance Written Notice: Your landlord must give written notice before increasing the rent if you are on a month-to-month rental agreement. The required notice is generally at least 15 days before the new rent takes effect. For a fixed-term lease, your landlord can only raise rent after your lease ends or if your lease specifically allows mid-term increases.
• No Discrimination: Landlords cannot increase your rent or change your terms because of your race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, family status, or other protected categories under the Florida Fair Housing Act.

What If You Can’t Afford the Increase?

If you receive a major rent hike, your options include:

• Talking to your landlord to negotiate a smaller increase or more gradual adjustments.
• Reviewing your lease for any clauses about rent adjustments or renewal terms.
• Contacting local agencies or renter advocacy groups for help or guidance.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Florida does not have a specific statewide form to challenge rent increases because rent control laws generally do not apply. However, renters can use other official forms for related situations:

• Notice from Landlord to Tenant – Termination for Other Than Failure to Pay Rent (Florida Bar Form): Used if a landlord is ending a lease for reasons besides unpaid rent, including after rent negotiations fail. Receive and respond carefully if you get this notice.
  See official form from The Florida Bar
• Complaint for Eviction (Form 1.997): If you refuse a rent increase and do not vacate at lease end, your landlord may use this official court form to file for eviction. You must respond in court.
  Florida Courts – Self-Help Forms
• Answer – Residential Eviction (Form 1.982(b)): If you are served with an eviction complaint, use this form to respond and explain your side to the court. Submit it within the timeframe on your eviction notice.
  Florida Courts – Self-Help

Official forms can be filed with the relevant county court if you are involved in a legal dispute over your tenancy. For support and guidance, consider consulting with Florida Legal Services or your local courthouse self-help center.

Where to Resolve Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Florida?

The Florida State Courts System handles residential tenancy and eviction disputes in Florida. Cases are generally filed in your county's civil court. There is no special 'rent board' or similar tribunal in Florida—disputes related to rent increases or evictions are settled in court.

Relevant Florida Rental Laws

• Florida Statutes Section 125.0103 – Regulation of Rent: Explains rent control restrictions.
• Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Fla. Stat. §§ 83.40-83.683): General rights and obligations for both renters and landlords.

FAQs About Rent Increases and Stabilization in Florida

1. Does Florida have statewide rent control or rent stabilization?
   No. There are no statewide laws limiting how much Florida landlords can raise rent. Only local emergency ordinances (very rare and temporary) could limit increases.
2. How much notice must a Florida landlord give before raising the rent?
   For month-to-month rentals, landlords must provide at least 15 days’ written notice. For fixed-term leases, rent cannot be raised during the term unless the lease allows it.
3. Can a landlord raise your rent for any reason?
   Generally, yes, as long as it is not for a discriminatory or retaliatory reason, and proper notice is provided.
4. What should I do if I can’t afford a sudden rent increase?
   Try negotiating with your landlord. If that fails, seek help from local rental assistance programs or legal aid.
5. Where can I go if I have a dispute about a rent increase?
   Tenant-landlord disputes in Florida are handled by the county courts. You can contact your local courthouse for self-help resources or seek assistance from Florida Legal Services.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida State Courts System – Official information on tenant-landlord disputes
• Florida Legal Services – Free and low-cost legal aid for renters
• ACCESS Florida – Rental assistance programs
• The Florida Bar – Consumer Information: Rights & Duties of Tenants and Landlords

---

1. Florida Statutes §125.0103 – Regulation of Rent
2. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Fla. Stat. §83.46 and more)
3. Florida State Courts System

Key Takeaways:

• Florida does not have statewide rent stabilization. Local rent control is allowed only under narrowly defined emergencies.
• Rent increases must include proper written notice. Disputes are handled by county courts, not a special board.
• Renters facing unaffordable increases should review their lease, communicate with their landlord, and reach out to legal aid or rental support services.

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