Are there limits on how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit?

Yes, there are limits on how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit in Florida. According to Florida Statute 83.49, a landlord cannot charge more than two months’ rent as a security deposit for an unfurnished rental unit. For a furnished rental unit, the landlord may charge an additional one-month rent to cover the costs of furniture and other equipment. The landlord must also provide the tenant with a written list of any additional deposits collected and the purpose of each. Additionally, the landlord must provide the tenant with an itemized list of damages or cleaning costs if the landlord decides to deduct any amount from the security deposit at the end of the lease. The landlord must return the security deposit within 15 days following the termination of the lease or following the tenant’s surrender of the property to the landlord. If the landlord fails to do so, the tenant may be entitled to recover the security deposit, plus three times the deposit amount and attorney’s fees.

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