How to Dispute an Unlawful Rent Hike in Florida

If you’re renting in Florida and your landlord has raised the rent unexpectedly, you may be wondering whether the increase is legal and what steps you can take to protect yourself. While Florida does not have rent control or statewide rent stabilization, there are still legal protections for renters regarding the manner and timing of rent increases. Understanding your rights is key.

Understanding Rent Increases in Florida

Florida landlords generally have the right to increase rent if specific rules are followed. However, there are important limitations and notice requirements under Florida law^[1]:

• Written Notice: Landlords must give proper written notice of any rent increase, usually at least 15 days before the end of a month-to-month rental period, unless your lease specifies a different requirement.
• No Increase During Lease: If you have a fixed-term lease, your landlord typically cannot increase your rent until the lease expires unless your lease specifically allows for mid-term rent raises.
• Discrimination & Retaliation: Rent increases cannot be made in a discriminatory or retaliatory manner, such as punishing you for requesting repairs or reporting code violations.

While Florida law does not cap how much a landlord can raise the rent, increases must still comply with any local ordinances and meet basic legal standards.

What Makes a Rent Increase Illegal in Florida?

A rent increase may be considered unlawful if:

• The landlord fails to provide proper written notice as required by law or your lease
• The increase happens before your lease ends and your agreement does not allow for this
• The increase is based on discrimination (race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability)
• The landlord is retaliating against you for asserting your legal rights

If you suspect the rent increase does not follow state law or your lease, it’s important to act promptly.

How to Challenge an Illegal Rent Increase

If you believe your rent increase is improper, here are the recommended steps you can take:

1. Review Your Lease and Laws

• Carefully read your lease agreement for rent increase terms
• Check Florida law and, if applicable, local ordinances for specific rules

2. Request Written Justification

• Send a polite written request to your landlord asking for the reason and documentation behind the rent hike
• Keep copies of any related correspondence

3. Send a Formal Written Objection

• If the increase appears illegal, respond in writing to the landlord detailing your concerns and referencing the relevant law or lease provision
• Consider using a certified letter or email for documentation

4. File a Complaint if Unresolved

• Contact your local code enforcement office if you believe the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory
• You may also file a housing discrimination complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

5. Consider Mediation or Legal Action

• In some counties, there are mediation services to help resolve disputes
• If needed, you may file a case in your local county court — often the Florida County Court — which oversees residential tenancy matters.

Relevant Forms and Where to File

• Notice of Non-Compliance/Objection (No Official Form): In Florida, there is currently no state-issued standard form to object to a rent increase. Most renters write a letter or email to their landlord. Example: “I am writing to contest the rent increase dated [date], as I have not received the required notice under Florida Statutes Section 83.57.”
• Florida County Court - Complaint for Landlord/Tenant Dispute: If mediation fails, renters may file a complaint in their county’s civil court. See official forms and instructions. These forms are typically titled “Complaint for Landlord/Tenant Dispute.” Use when you have evidence that your landlord has acted unlawfully and informal resolution efforts have failed. Submit in person or electronically if available on your county court’s official website.
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form HUD-903: If you suspect the rent increase is discriminatory, file Form HUD-903 online with HUD. Example: Use if your rent was raised after you reported a protected-status issue (such as disability or race).

The official tribunal for rental disputes in Florida is your local County Court. Rental laws are governed under the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Florida Statutes).

FAQ: Challenging Rent Increases in Florida

1. Can my landlord increase my rent at any time in Florida?
   Usually, landlords must wait until your lease term ends or provide proper notice if you’re renting month-to-month.
2. Is there a limit to how much rent can be increased in Florida?
   No statewide cap exists, but increases must be non-discriminatory and follow your lease agreement.
3. Do I have to move out if I can’t pay the increased rent?
   No, but if you do not agree to the new terms and your lease ends, your landlord may start the eviction process. Seek help early if you’re struggling.
4. Where can I report an illegal rent increase?
   File a complaint with your local code enforcement, HUD for discrimination, or take your case to Florida County Court.
5. Can my landlord retaliate against me for challenging a rent increase?
   No, retaliation is illegal under Florida law. Document any suspected retaliation immediately.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida County Courts – Handles landlord/tenant disputes
• Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83) – Official tenancy laws
• Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation – Tenant Resources
• HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Portal
• Florida Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal support for renters

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1. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Fla. Stat. §§ 83.40-83.683)
2. Florida County Courts – Residential Tenancy Disputes
3. DBPR Tenant Information
4. HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Portal

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