Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Florida

Re: Won't let me out

DISCLAIMER: Each case turns on its' own particular merits, the discussion here reaches only generalities. No attorney-client relationship established by this response. Do not rely on this as final legal advice, but consult with a local attorney for legal guidance for your particular situation.

That being said, here are some of the issues that immediately come to mind:

1) What does the rental agreement say? While Florida's Landlord / Tenant Act affords both the LL and the T certain protections, you can effectively give up, most, but not all, protections by the contract. Some provisions in leases are void from the very beginning, as being against public policy, and have no effect against you.

2) Notice: According to the fact pattern you gave, the landlords have been given ample notice of your intent to surrender the premises. Surrender generally becomes effective when you return the keys to the place. From that moment on, a clock starts ticking and the LL's have 30 days within which to file a claim against your damage deposit or return it in full, after which time they may be liable for penalties if the damage deposits are wrongfully withheld.

3) Do you have documents to prove all your contentions?

4) Ultimately, your best bet is to consult with a local attorney who is experienced in this kind of law. You might take into consideration the expense of an attorney versus fighting the case, even though if you win you MAY be able to recover your legal costs. Even though it may be a pain, it may be less expensive in the short run simply to pay the excess money and be done with it, even though they are in the wrong. Why? Because even if you are in the right, it will cost you $$$ to fight it.

Good Luck to you sir.