Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Florida
Issues between tenant and landlord
My boyfriend and I entered into an
agreement with a friend of ours to
live in a home owned by her
mother. We signed a 'lease
agreement' with her with her
conditions and items she promised
to fix indicated in the lease. In the
past few days, we have been
informed that she does not have a
business license, she has been
telling others she plans to raise our
rent, and does not discuss any
problems or give us notices
indicating any issues. Upon moving
in, in the presence of a witness,
she stated utilities are included but
we do not believe the rent is being
used to pay for utilities. Are there
any steps we should take? Is the
agreement even legal?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Issues between tenant and landlord
There is no requirement that a landlord have a business license, and so long as she abides by the terms of the lease and so do you then there is no reason to worry.
If she wants to raise your rent at the end of the lease term then that is her choice, but you have a choice whether to stay or leave at that point.
Don't get caught up in the hearsay from others.
Re: Issues between tenant and landlord
I don't see a problem yet.
She may very well intend to raise the rent and she could do so at the end of your lease term. You are in a better position, of course if the "electricity included" was in the written lease, but it does not appear that you have received a bill or been required to sign up for electricity with the utilities company.
I see nothing that would invaliate your written lease.