Florida Renters: Filing a Maintenance Request That Works

Living in a rental home comes with the expectation that basic repairs and essential maintenance are taken care of by your landlord. In Florida, specific laws protect renters and set standards for property habitability. Knowing how to file a repair request properly can make all the difference in getting fast, effective results.

Understanding Your Right to Habitability in Florida

Florida law requires landlords to keep rental properties in livable condition, including working plumbing, safe structures, and functioning utilities. This standard is commonly known as the "warranty of habitability." Landlord duties are outlined in Florida Statutes, Chapter 83 – Part II (the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act)¹. If something in your rental needs fixing, you have the right to request repairs from your landlord.

When and How to Submit a Repair Request

For non-emergency repairs, begin by alerting your landlord through clear documentation. For emergencies—like lack of heat, sewer backups, or major leaks—contact your landlord immediately by phone, but always follow up in writing.

Best Practices for Submitting a Repair Request

• Submit your request in writing (email, certified letter, or official form when possible)
• Describe the issue specifically (include location, problem, how it affects you)
• Include the date of your request
• Save copies of all communications

Sample Written Notice: The 7-Day Notice to Landlord

Florida does not require a specific government-issued form for repair requests. However, the 7-Day Notice to Landlord (to Cure Noncompliance) is most widely used. This written notice gives your landlord seven days to fix the issue.

• When to use: For repairs affecting health and safety or violating your rental agreement.
• How to use: Write a letter or use a template specifying the problem and request repair within 7 days. Send it by certified mail or another method that gives you a receipt.
• Official Sample Form: 7-Day Notice to Landlord (PDF) (from Florida Courts)

Steps to Take if Repairs Are Not Made

If your landlord does not respond to your written notice or fails to repair after seven days, you have additional options under Florida law:

• Withhold rent (only if the issue is serious and after proper written notice; check legal requirements first)
• Terminate your lease and move out (in extreme cases)
• File a complaint with your local code enforcement office
• Take the issue to county court

It is vital to follow legal steps exactly. Withholding rent incorrectly can risk eviction. Always keep copies of all notices and responses.

Who Handles Disputes?

The main government agency overseeing landlord-tenant disputes in Florida is your local county court and sometimes city or county housing code offices. There is no statewide "tenancy tribunal;" instead, Florida’s courts resolve these issues. If safety standards or essential services are not maintained, contacting code enforcement or the health department is also recommended. Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation provides information, especially for larger apartment buildings.

Key Action Steps to Get Maintenance Issues Resolved

• Identify the repair needed and gather evidence (photos, written descriptions)
• Send a clearly written 7-Day Notice to Landlord
• Keep records of all communications
• If no response, seek support and consider next legal steps through your county court or code enforcement

Even if frustrated, always work through official channels. Proper procedure protects your rights.

FAQ: Florida Renters Repair Request Process

1. Do I have to use a specific form for repair requests in Florida?
   No. However, written notice is crucial. Using the official 7-Day Notice to Landlord form or letter is recommended to clearly document your request.
2. Can I stop paying rent if repairs aren’t made?
   Florida law allows rent withholding for serious repairs only if written notice and the proper process are followed. It is best to consult with legal support before withholding rent to avoid eviction risks.
3. How long does my landlord have to make repairs?
   After you deliver a 7-day written notice, your landlord generally has seven days to complete necessary repairs affecting health or safety.
4. What if my landlord ignores my written repair request?
   If there’s no response or fix after seven days, you may appeal to local code enforcement, county court, or explore lease termination depending on the severity of the problem.
5. Who enforces tenant repair rights in Florida?
   The local county court handles residential tenancy matters, while local code enforcement can inspect housing standard violations.

Conclusion: What Florida Renters Should Remember

• Document and file written repair requests promptly—preferably using the 7-Day Notice to Landlord.
• Always keep copies of all communications and repairs.
• If repairs aren’t made, use county court or code enforcement for help—never withhold rent without knowing the law.

Following these steps gives you the strongest chance of resolving maintenance issues quickly and protecting your rights as a renter in Florida.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Bar: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
• Florida Courts: Landlord/Tenant Self Help
• Florida Law Help: Landlord/Tenant
• Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation
• Your local city or county code enforcement office (search online or call your city government for contact info)

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1. Florida Statutes Chapter 83 – Part II: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Florida Court System: Residential Tenancies
3. Florida Courts 7-Day Notice to Landlord (PDF)

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