Florida Rules on Landlords Shutting Off Electricity for Non-Payment

Struggling with utility cut-offs can be stressful, especially if you're worried about your landlord taking action over unpaid bills. As a Florida renter, it's important to know your legal rights and what your landlord can—and cannot—do regarding electricity shut-offs for non-payment. This article will help you understand Florida laws, the official organizations involved, and your options if a utility is disconnected.

Florida Law: Can Landlords Shut Off Electricity for Non-Payment?

Under Florida Statutes Section 83.67, it is generally illegal for a landlord to shut off electricity or interrupt utilities to force a renter to pay rent or vacate the premises. This applies whether the utilities are in the landlord’s name or the tenant’s name.

• Landlords cannot disconnect electricity as a way of evicting or compelling payment.
• Shutting off utilities is considered a form of "self-help eviction" and is not allowed.
• Legal eviction in Florida requires going through the proper court process via the Florida court system.

Exceptions: When Can Utility Shut-Off Happen?

There are scenarios where your electricity may be shut off, but only by the utility company—not the landlord—if the tenant fails to pay the utility bill, and the utility account is in the tenant’s name. However, the landlord cannot interfere, cut service, or instruct the provider to disconnect power as retaliation or for rent payment purposes.

Florida’s Official Landlord-Tenant Tribunal

In Florida, landlord-tenant disputes—like illegal utility shut-offs—are handled by county courts. Start by reviewing guidance from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Landlord/Tenant Program and, if needed, file a case with your local county court.

What To Do If Your Landlord Illegally Shuts Off Electricity

If you believe your landlord has illegally shut off or interrupted your electricity:

• Document the disconnection (take photos, keep notices, save communications).
• Contact your landlord in writing to request immediate restoration of utilities.
• If not resolved, you may file a complaint or start legal action through your local county court.

Relevant Official Forms for Florida Renters

• Residential Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
  Used to file official complaints about landlord violations, including illegal utility shut-offs.
  Download the Florida Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (PDF)
  Example: A renter completes this form to report that their landlord cut off the power to demand overdue rent.
• Florida Residential Eviction Summons (Form 1.923)
  Used in court if an eviction is filed by the landlord (this is the legal process for regaining possession, rather than utility shut-off).
  View Form 1.923

Penalties for Illegal Shut-Offs

Florida law allows tenants to recover damages and, in some cases, attorneys’ fees if a landlord unlawfully interrupts utilities. Courts may award up to three months’ rent or actual damages, whichever is greater¹.

Steps to Take if Your Utilities Are Disconnected

• Confirm whether the shut-off was by the utility company (for non-payment) or by your landlord.
• If your landlord is responsible, immediately request in writing that power is restored.
• Submit the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form if your landlord refuses to restore service.
• Speak with your local county court clerk for information on starting a claim against your landlord.

Understanding Utility Billing Responsibilities

Be sure to review your lease agreement for specific clauses about utility responsibilities. If utilities are included in your rent, landlords cannot stop or reduce these services for any reason related to rent collection.

In summary, your landlord cannot legally shut off your electricity. Only the utility company can, and only if you are the responsible account holder and fail to pay your bill to the provider. If your landlord attempts a shut-off, Florida provides legal protections—and clear steps—to restore your rights.

FAQs for Florida Tenants Facing Utility Shut-Offs

1. Can my Florida landlord turn off my electricity for late rent?
   No. Under Florida law, landlords are not allowed to shut off utilities as a way to force payment or eviction.
2. What can I do if my landlord cuts off my power?
   Document the incident, ask in writing for restoration, and file a complaint using Florida’s official Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form.
3. Who should I contact for help with illegal utility shut-offs?
   Begin with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and if needed, your local county court.
4. Is the landlord ever allowed to shut off power for repairs?
   Short-term disruption due to necessary repairs is allowed, but not as punishment or for rent non-payment. Any prolonged loss of service must be addressed promptly.
5. Can I recover damages if my landlord shuts off electricity illegally?
   Yes. You may be entitled to damages (up to three months’ rent) or your actual losses, plus possible attorneys’ fees.

Key Takeaways for Florida Renters

• Landlords cannot legally shut off your utility services to force payment or eviction.
• If your power is cut by the landlord, file an official complaint and seek legal help.
• Utility companies may disconnect service for non-payment, but landlords must follow proper eviction procedures instead.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Landlord/Tenant Law
• Florida Law Help – Landlord/Tenant Rights
• Contact your local Florida County Court for filing processes and legal support
• For emergencies, contact your city or county government housing office

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1. Florida Statutes Section 83.67 – Prohibited Practices
2. FDACS Landlord-Tenant Resource Guide
3. Florida Courts – Residential Eviction

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