Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Florida

Along with 2 other people, we entered into individual leases for one property in FL. these leases were to end Dec 31. Prior to the end of the lease, the first two moved out. I continued to pay the rent in full and on time. (each of us were required to pay individually) As I prepared to leave, packing my belongings and performing the required cleaning, the landlord entered the unit while I was at work without any notice. Since I was preparing to leave, the place was cluttered. Because of the condition of the unit at that time the landlord is seeking damages. When I vacated the unit at the end of the lease he would not come back to inspect. The lanlord has begun collection proceedings on me and me alone for damages which I dispute. Can an individual property be rented seperately to several individuals? What about my other complaints, doesn't the landlord have to pursue all three parties if he has a complaint? And what about the security deposit? Where is it and how come I never received any information about that!


Asked on 4/18/10, 12:30 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
David Labovitz Labovitz Law Firm, P.A.

Hi. To answer your first question, yes, a landlord can have separate leases with each tenant. It happens all the time in college towns, for example. Regarding the damages and your security deposit, the statute is very specific that the landlord is required to send you notice if he intends to claim and or all of your security deposit. If he failed to provide you with timely notice under the statute, he loses any right to your deposit money. You can file a small claim, if need be.

Regarding pursuing all three for damages, you would have to read the provisions of your lease. Chances are the lease allows him to pursue any or all of you individually, although you might have an independent claim or claims against your other roommates.

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Answered on 4/23/10, 12:47 pm


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