Florida Statute 83.51 requires landlords to maintain rental units in a safe, clean, and livable condition. If your landlord isn’t meeting these responsibilities, you may be able to take legal action or withhold rent under certain conditions.

🏠 What Landlords Are Required to Do

Under Florida law, landlords must:

1. Keep the property in good repair

• Maintain the roof, windows, doors, floors, and walls so they are structurally sound.

1. Provide working plumbing and hot water

• Tenants must have access to safe drinking water and functioning sinks, toilets, and showers.

1. Ensure proper heating (and cooling if provided)

• Heating must be working. If the unit came with A/C, it must also be maintained.

1. Maintain pest control (in multifamily units)

• In buildings with more than 4 units, landlords are responsible for routine extermination.

1. Provide garbage disposal facilities

• Must supply working garbage containers and arrange for removal.

1. Comply with all building, housing, and health codes

🚩 How to Spot a Violation

Look out for these common signs of noncompliance:

Problem - Possible Violation

Leaky roof or ceiling stains

Failure to maintain the roof

Mold, mildew, or water damage

Plumbing or ventilation issues

No hot water or non-working toilet

Plumbing system violation

Broken windows or doors that won’t lock

Safety and security hazard

Rodents, roaches, or bedbugs

Lack of pest control (for multifamily)

Broken A/C in hot weather (if included in lease)

Failure to maintain appliances provided

Unsafe stairs, railings, or flooring

Structural dangers

Lack of smoke detectors or fire hazard

sHealth and safety code violations

📸 What to Do If You Spot a Violation

1. Document the issue

• Take photos, videos, or write a dated description.

1. Notify your landlord in writing

• Send a written request for repairs. Keep a copy.

1. Give the landlord 7 days to fix it

• This is required before taking further action.

1. Call Code Enforcement or a Lawyer

• If your landlord doesn’t act, report the issue or seek legal help.

1. DO NOT stop paying rent unless you follow legal steps

• Withholding rent incorrectly can lead to eviction.

⚖️ Need Help?

If your landlord is violating Florida Statute 83.51, you may have legal rights to demand repairs or compensation — but it must be done the right way.

Korte & Associates, PLLC can help you:

• Enforce repair obligations
• Demand compensation for property damage
• Fight eviction for exercising your rights