10/26/2026
Security deposits protect your Jacksonville rental, but only when they’re handled carefully and consistently.
A few Florida basics for rental owners:
• Disclose how and where the deposit is held in the lease or within 30 days of receiving it. Certain exemptions apply to owners renting fewer than five dwelling units.
• Keep deposits separate from operating funds and follow Florida’s rules for holding deposits and paying any required interest.
• Document the property’s condition before move-in and after move-out with dated photos and written notes.
• Deduct only legitimate charges, such as unpaid rent or damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, and keep the deductions itemized and supported by records.
• If there is no claim, return the deposit, plus required interest, within 15 days after the rental agreement ends.
• If making a claim, provide the required written notice within 30 days. The tenant generally has 15 days to object, and any remaining balance must be sent within 30 days after the claim notice.
Missed deadlines or vague deductions can turn a routine move-out into an expensive dispute. A reliable process protects your investment and helps keep tenant relationships professional.
Florida’s current statute: Fla. Stat. § 83.49. Requirements can vary by situation, so consult a qualified Florida attorney for legal advice.