Florida’s Rent Control Laws: What Renters Need to Know in 2025

Many renters in Florida are concerned about rising rents or sudden increases in 2025, especially in high-demand cities. Understanding how rent control works—or doesn’t work—in Florida is essential to protecting your housing stability. This guide breaks down what renters need to know about rent increases, state laws, and what you can do if you’re facing a difficult rent situation.

Is Rent Control Allowed in Florida?

Florida does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization. In fact, Florida law generally prohibits cities and counties from introducing their own local rent control laws. However, there are rare emergency exceptions, explained below.

How Florida Law Addresses Rent Control

According to the Florida Statutes Section 125.0103, local governments cannot pass rent control ordinances unless there is a housing emergency so grave that it is considered a severe menace to the general public. Even then, any local rent control measure:

• Must be approved by referendum (public vote)
• Can only last for one year at a time
• Does not apply to seasonal, luxury, or new construction housing

As of 2025, no Florida city or county has active rent control. Previous attempts, such as in Orange County, were blocked by courts.^[1]

How Much Can a Landlord Raise Rent in Florida?

Florida landlords can increase rent by any amount, unless it is prohibited by the terms of your lease. There are no state limits on the size or frequency of rent increases for most residential leases. The main protection is that a landlord must give proper advance notice:

• Month-to-month: At least 15 days' written notice before the increase takes effect
• Fixed-term leases (e.g., 12 months): Rent cannot be increased until the lease renews, unless your lease allows mid-term increases

If you are asked to pay more rent suddenly, check your lease and the amount of notice you received.

Your Rights If You Face a Sudden Rent Hike

If you get a rent increase that seems unfair or unaffordable, know that you have some rights and potential options:

• Review your lease for any limits on rent raises
• Request written details from your landlord (including effective date and amount)
• Negotiate or request time to move out if the new rent is too high
• If you think the increase is retaliatory (for example, after a repair complaint), Florida law offers some protections under Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[2]

How to Officially Dispute or Respond to a Rent Increase

Florida does not have a specific 'Rent Control Board' or rental tribunal. Instead, complaints and disputes can be addressed through:

• Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Landlord-Tenant Law
  • File written complaints about landlord-tenant violations
• Florida Courts Self-Help: Landlord-Tenant

If you receive an eviction threat or notice after a rent increase and want to contest it:

• Respond promptly in writing (form details below)
• Consider legal aid for advice or court filings

Essential Forms for Florida Renters

While there is no "rent control application," certain forms may be relevant if your rent increase leads to a dispute or eviction:

• Florida 7-Day Notice to Cure Noncompliance (Nonpayment of Rent)
  • When used: If you fail to pay rent, your landlord may issue this before filing for eviction.
  • How to use: If you receive this form, you have 7 days to pay the rent owed or risk eviction. If you believe the increase is illegal (for example, if your lease says it should not go up mid-term), you can respond with a written objection.
  • Source: 7-Day Notice to Cure Noncompliance
• Florida 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate
  • When used: Given if you do not pay rent on time.
  • How to use: You must pay the overdue rent or move out within 3 business days. If you dispute the rent amount, respond in writing and seek legal help immediately.
  • Source: 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate
• Landlord/Tenant Complaint Form
  • When used: To file complaints about unfair practices or violations.
  • How to use: Download from the FDACS Landlord-Tenant Law page, fill it out, and submit to the agency for investigation.
  • Source: Landlord/Tenant Complaint Form

Each form can help document your side if a rent increase leads to conflict, and can protect you in court.

Florida’s Official Rental Tribunal or Board

Florida does not have a specialized "rent board." Residential tenancy issues are handled by the local county court system (Small Claims or County Court) and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

FAQ: Florida Rent Control and Rent Increases for 2025

1. Does Florida have any active rent control in 2025?
   No. State law mostly prohibits rent control, with rare emergency exceptions that are not currently in effect.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give before raising my rent?
   At least 15 days written notice for month-to-month agreements. For longer leases, increases typically only apply at renewal.
3. Can I dispute a rent increase in Florida?
   You can negotiate or file a complaint if you believe the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory, but there are no automatic legal caps.
4. What should I do if my rent becomes unaffordable?
   Consider requesting more time to move out, negotiating, or contacting local legal aid or FDACS for help.
5. If I ignore a rent increase, can I be evicted?
   Your landlord can initiate eviction if you do not pay the new rent amount after the required notice. Respond in writing, review your lease, and seek advice if you believe the increase is improper.

Key Takeaways

• Florida does not have rent control in 2025; rent increases are not capped by the state.
• Landlords must give written notice before raising rent—check your lease for terms.
• If a rent increase seems retaliatory or if you face eviction, use official forms and contact state agencies for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Landlord-Tenant Law: Facts, forms, complaints, and guidance
• Florida Courts Self-Help: Residential Landlord–Tenant: Court processes and instructions
• Florida Law Help – Housing: Free legal aid directory and resources for tenants

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1. Florida Statutes Section 125.0103 — Rent Control Measures
2. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Part II, Chapter 83)

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