Florida Rental Property Drinking Water Standards: Renter Guide

Access to clean and safe drinking water is a basic right for all renters in Florida. When you move into a rental property, it’s important to know what standards your landlord must meet and what to do if you suspect your water is unsafe. Understanding Florida’s requirements can help renters maintain good health and resolve any water quality issues quickly and effectively.

What Are Safe Drinking Water Requirements in Florida Rentals?

Landlords in Florida are required by law to provide tenants with water that is safe for drinking, cooking, and bathing. This means the water should meet state and federal health standards for cleanliness and safety.

• Potable Water: All rental units must have access to potable (safe-to-drink) water, whether from a public utility or, for rural areas, from a private well.
• Water Quality: According to the EPA’s National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, all drinking water must be free from harmful contaminants, including certain bacteria, chemicals, and metals.
• Landlord Responsibility: Landlords must ensure all plumbing fixtures and water systems in rental units comply with health standards, as outlined in Florida Statutes Section 83.51 (Landlord’s Obligation to Maintain Premises).

For a full list of Florida’s standards, see the Florida Department of Health—Drinking Water Program.

Common Drinking Water Issues in Florida Rentals

Issues sometimes arise with rental water supplies. If you notice any of the following, your water may not meet standards:

• Discoloration (brown, yellow, or cloudy water)
• Unusual taste or odor
• Noticeable debris in the water
• Illnesses that improve after drinking bottled water

What If I Suspect My Water Is Unsafe?

If you believe your rental’s drinking water is unsafe, it’s important to act quickly:

• Document the issue: Take photos and notes of the water’s condition.
• Contact your landlord in writing and ask for repairs or testing. Under Florida law, you should notify your landlord in writing of any repairs needed that affect habitability (including water quality).
• Request an inspection or official water test if the problem persists.

Official Forms for Florida Renters

• Notice to Landlord: 7-Day to Cure (No. FL-7DAYCURE)
  When to use: If your landlord is not providing safe drinking water, use this notice to formally request repairs. Under Florida Statutes 83.56, you must give written notice and allow a reasonable time (typically 7 days, unless emergency) for the landlord to fix the problem.
  How to use: Fill in the details about the water issue, the address, and date. Deliver it by hand or send by certified mail.
  Download the official form from Florida Courts.
• Florida Tenant Complaint Form
  When to use: If your landlord does not respond or fix the unsafe water issue, file a complaint with your local Florida Department of Health office. This form helps start an inspection process.
  How to use: Identify the problem, property address, and when you notified the landlord. Submit online or to the county health department.
  File a health complaint online.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Florida?

If a landlord fails to provide safe water or respond to complaints, renters may take the matter to their local county court. In Florida, landlord-tenant disputes are handled by the Florida County Courts under the authority of the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Summary: Florida Drinking Water Protections for Renters

Florida law clearly states landlords must provide safe, potable water to tenants. Official forms and complaint processes exist if issues arise. Familiarizing yourself with your rights and knowing how to raise concerns helps keep you and your household healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What can I do if my Florida rental has unsafe drinking water?
   Notify your landlord in writing using a 7-Day to Cure Notice. If the issue isn’t fixed, contact the local Florida Department of Health and consider filing a complaint or taking the matter to county court.
2. Who ensures landlords provide safe water standards in Florida?
   The Florida Department of Health enforces water quality standards, while county courts resolve disputes under the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
3. Do landlords have to test water for contamination?
   Yes. Landlords are responsible for routine maintenance of water systems, and for testing water if there are reports of contamination—especially if the property uses a private well.
4. Can I withhold rent if my landlord won’t provide clean water?
   Possibly, but only after giving proper written notice (7-Day to Cure) and following all legal procedures in Florida Statutes Section 83.56. Always consult with your local court or legal aid resource before withholding rent.
5. Where can I file a drinking water complaint in Florida?
   You can file an official complaint with your local Florida Department of Health. Use their Tenant Complaint Form online.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlords must provide potable, safe drinking water to Florida renters.
• Tenants should always notify landlords in writing if water is unsafe and can use official forms to document requests.
• If issues are not resolved, renters may file complaints or contact county courts for further action.

Knowing your rights and the correct steps to take can help ensure your rental stays comfortable and healthy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Department of Health – Drinking Water Program
• Florida County Courts – Landlord/Tenant Information
• Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Florida Law Help – Legal Aid Directory

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1. Florida Statutes Chapter 83 Part II – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Florida Department of Health – Drinking Water Regulations
3. Florida County Courts – Landlord/Tenant Issues

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