Mediation for Florida Landlord-Tenant Disputes: What Renters Need to Know

If you’re a renter in Florida facing a disagreement with your landlord—such as over repairs, deposits, or an eviction notice—you may have options for resolving the issue that don’t involve going to court. One effective path is mediation, where a neutral third party helps you and your landlord talk through your concerns and reach a fair solution. This article explains mediation in plain language, with action steps, official forms, and government resources specific to Florida renters.

What Is Mediation in Florida Landlord-Tenant Disputes?

Mediation is a confidential process where a trained, neutral mediator helps renters and landlords communicate and try to reach a voluntary agreement. It is less formal than going to court and often faster and less stressful. In Florida, mediation is used for issues like security deposits, needed repairs, disagreements about rent, and even before some eviction hearings.

Who Handles Landlord-Tenant Mediation in Florida?

Florida does not have a separate housing tribunal, but landlord-tenant disputes are typically handled in County Courts. Mediation services may be offered through the court system, particularly before eviction hearings, or via local community mediation centers. You can learn more from your local courthouse’s ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) Program or your county’s clerk of court. Find your county court via the Florida Courts County Directory.

How Does the Florida Mediation Process Work?

Mediation typically follows these steps:

• Referral: Either you or your landlord can request mediation. Courts may also require it before a hearing.
• Scheduling: You’ll receive notice of the mediation time and location. Most county courts and some legal aid organizations offer this service at low or no cost.
• Mediation Session: Both sides meet with a certified mediator. You’ll each have the chance to explain the issue; the mediator helps guide a respectful conversation.
• Agreement: If you both agree to a solution, it’s put in writing. A signed agreement is generally enforceable by the court.
• If No Agreement: You can still take your dispute to court if mediation doesn’t resolve it.

This process is designed to protect both renter and landlord rights under Florida law.

Relevant Florida Landlord-Tenant Legislation

Mediation, rights, and obligations are governed by the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Part II)¹. This law sets rules for things like rental payments, notices, and maintenance duty.

Key Legal Terms Explained

• Summons: A legal notice that a lawsuit, such as an eviction, has been filed against you.
• Complaint for Eviction (Form 1.994): The official form a landlord files to begin an eviction in county court. Renters can respond by filing an Answer.
• Answer (Form 1.988): The form renters use to respond to a Complaint for Eviction, explaining their side and possible defenses. View and download the Answer form here.

For most problems before reaching the point of eviction, mediation is available and encouraged as an alternative to court action.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Answer – Eviction (Form 1.988): Use if you’ve been served with a complaint for eviction. You must file your Answer with the clerk of the county court listed on the summons within 5 business days of receiving it. Download the Answer Form 1.988 (PDF)
• Request for Mediation (Varies by County): Some courts offer their own form to request mediation. For example, Miami-Dade County renters can use the Landlord-Tenant Dispute Mediation Request Form. Always check with your local court for the correct form and procedure.

Example: If your landlord refuses to make repairs, you might fill out the mediation request form with your county court, stating the facts, and submit it as instructed. The court will then schedule a mediation session at no or low cost.

Tip: Bring all documentation—like emails, photos, receipts—to mediation. This helps clarify your side and can lead to a faster, fairer result.

Steps to Start Mediation in Florida for Renters

If you want to try mediation for a landlord-tenant problem in Florida, follow this summary:

• Contact your county court clerk or local mediation center to ask how to request mediation
• Complete the required mediation request form (or ask the court or a legal aid service for help)
• Attend the mediation session with your records and any evidence
• If an agreement is reached, review it carefully before signing; keep a copy for your records

FAQ: Florida Renters & Mediation

1. Is mediation required before eviction in Florida?
   Court-ordered mediation is not automatically required statewide, but some Florida county courts may order or offer mediation before proceeding with an eviction trial.
2. What if my landlord refuses to participate in mediation?
   Mediation is voluntary unless court-ordered. If your landlord refuses and mediation is not ordered, your next option may be to proceed in county court.
3. Does mediation replace my right to go to court?
   No. Mediation lets you seek a fair compromise outside of court, but you still keep your right to go before a judge if mediation does not resolve your issue.
4. Is mediation free for Florida renters?
   Many county courts provide mediation free for eviction cases or small landlord-tenant disputes. Fees may apply in some situations—ask your county court for details.
5. Are agreements reached in mediation legally binding?
   Yes, once signed, a mediated agreement is enforceable by the court. Always read agreements carefully before signing.

Key Takeaways for Florida Renters Considering Mediation

• Mediation provides a faster, more flexible way to resolve disputes with your landlord than going to court.
• Official forms, such as the Answer to an Eviction, and local mediation request forms are important; submit them promptly.
• Your rights and obligations are governed by the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Courts – Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)/Mediation
• Florida Courts Help (official assistance on forms and court processes)
• Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (full law text)
• Find your local county court for mediation services
• Florida Law Help (legal aid and pro bono services)

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1. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Fla. Stat. § 83.40–83.682)
2. Florida Courts ADR/Mediation Information
3. Florida Courts Help Official Portal

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