Security Deposit Laws in Florida
Florida sets no cap on security deposits, requires return within 15 days if the landlord makes no claim (or written notice of a claim within 30 days), and requires 24 hours' notice before entering for repairs.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
Florida at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- No statewide limit
- State law sets no maximum deposit
- Deposit return deadline
- 15 days
- 15 days after the lease ends if no claim; 30 days to send written notice of a claim
- Interest on deposits
- Required in some cases
- State law requires interest only in some situations, for example above a unit count or holding period
- Notice before landlord entry
- 24 hours
- 24 hours' notice for repairs
The rules in Florida
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Florida?
Florida law sets no statewide limit on security deposits, so the amount is set by the lease. Check for local rules where you rent.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Florida?
Florida rule: 15 days after the lease ends if no claim; 30 days to send written notice of a claim.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Florida?
Only in some cases. Florida law requires interest only in certain situations, for example above a number of units or after the deposit is held for a set time. Check the statute for the details.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in Florida?
Florida rule: 24 hours' notice for repairs.
Where do the Florida rules for residential leases come from?
They come from Fla. Stat. 83.49 and Fla. Stat. 83.53. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How Florida compares
Florida is one of 21 jurisdictions with no statewide cap. Its 15-day return deadline is shorter than the most common deadline of 30 days; 6 jurisdictions require a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.