Florida Rules on Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades

Florida renters with disabilities often request accessibility upgrades—like ramps, grab bars, or accessible entryways—to make their rental homes safer and more comfortable. Sometimes, renters worry that once these changes are made, their landlord might raise the rent. This article explains what Florida law says about rent increases after accessibility modifications and what protections you have as a renter.

Accessibility Modifications and Florida Law

The Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs the relationship between landlords and tenants in Florida. Under both Florida law and federal law (the Fair Housing Act), renters with disabilities have the right to request reasonable modifications to their rental homes at their own expense.

A reasonable modification is a physical change to the rental unit that is necessary for a person with a disability to use the property fully.

Who Pays for Accessibility Upgrades?

• Florida law typically requires the renter to pay for accessibility upgrades, unless the rental property receives federal financial assistance—then, the landlord may need to pay.
• The landlord can require the renter to restore the property to its original condition when moving out, but only if reasonable.

For more on your modification rights, visit the U.S. Department of Justice Fair Housing page.

Can a Florida Landlord Raise Rent After Accessibility Modifications?

Florida law does not specifically prohibit a landlord from raising rent after modifications are made for accessibility, as long as they follow state and local rules about notice and do not discriminate.

• Landlords cannot increase rent only because a renter has a disability or because authorized modifications were made—this would be considered discrimination, which is illegal.
• Landlords may increase rent as part of their usual rent adjustment process, following all required notification periods.

Any rent increase must comply with the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and cannot target renters for making reasonable modifications.

Required Notice for Rent Increases

Florida does not cap rent increases, but the landlord must provide proper notice to the tenant before the increase takes effect:

• If you have a month-to-month lease: At least 15 days’ written notice before the end of the monthly period.
• If you have a longer, fixed-term lease: Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless your lease allows it.

For notification rules and forms, see the Florida Housing Landlord/Tenant Resource Page.

Important Official Forms for Florida Renters

• Florida Notice of Modification Request (no state-issued form): Tenants should make modification requests in writing. Clearly describe the changes needed and why. There is no standard state form, but check your local housing authority for sample templates.
• Florida Notice of Rent Increase: There is also no standard statewide form, but a written notice (which can be delivered by mail, hand, or as specified in your lease) is required for any rent increase. For examples, see Florida Housing’s Landlord-Tenant Resource Center.

If you believe a rent increase is discriminatory, you can file a complaint with the Florida Commission on Human Relations, which handles housing discrimination cases.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Florida?

Most rental disputes in Florida—including issues about evictions, rent increases, or accessibility accommodations—are decided in County Courts where the property is located. To learn more or find your local court, visit the Florida Courts trial court locator.

What To Do If Your Rent Is Increased After an Accessibility Upgrade

If you receive a rent increase after making a disability-related modification, check if your lease allows this and whether the notice was given correctly. Carefully document any conversations or notices.

• If you suspect the increase is due to your disability status or the upgrades, contact the Florida Commission on Human Relations to file a discrimination complaint.
• You may also seek advice from Florida Legal Services.

FAQs: Rent Increases and Accessibility in Florida

1. Can my Florida landlord raise my rent after I’ve paid for accessibility upgrades?
   Landlords cannot raise rent specifically because of disability-related upgrades, but they may increase rent for other legal reasons as allowed by your lease and state law.
2. What notice is required for rent increases in Florida?
   Month-to-month renters must receive at least 15 days’ written notice. Fixed-term leases may only be increased if the lease allows it.
3. Is there a specific Florida form to request accessibility modifications?
   No, there’s no statewide form. Requests should be made in writing, outlining the needed changes and the disability-related reason.
4. Where do I file a complaint about discrimination in rental housing?
   You can file with the Florida Commission on Human Relations.
5. Who decides tenant-landlord disputes in Florida?
   These cases usually go to your local County Court. Find your court using the Florida Courts website.

Summary: Key Takeaways on Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades

In summary, Florida law protects renters with disabilities from discrimination related to rent increases after accessibility upgrades. Here are the main points:

• Landlords cannot raise rent solely because a renter made accessibility modifications.
• Rent increases must follow standard notice requirements in Florida.
• If you believe the increase is discriminatory, contact the Florida Commission on Human Relations for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Florida

• Florida Commission on Human Relations: File a Discrimination Complaint
• Florida Housing – Landlord/Tenant Resources
• Find Your County Court (Florida Courts)
• Florida Legal Services
• U.S. Department of Justice – Fair Housing Act Information

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1. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Chapter 83
2. Federal Fair Housing Act
3. Florida Commission on Human Relations
4. Florida County Courts

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