FL · Security Deposit Law

Security deposit laws in Florida

15 days if no claim, 30 days if deductions claimed.

Return deadline

15 days

Itemization required

Yes

Bad-faith multiplier

What to do if your Florida landlord won't return your deposit

  • Confirm the 15-day window has passed since you provided a forwarding address.
  • Document the unit's move-out condition with photos and any walk-through notes.
  • Send a formal demand letter citing Florida's deposit return deadline and statutory damages.
  • If the landlord ignores your demand, file in small claims court — Florida allows up to 1x damages for wrongful withholding.
Generate a Florida demand letter