Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

40% rent increase

I rented for 8 years. Had written lease-new owner about 5 years ago-now with verbal lease. We are on temp. assignment in Ca. Daughter moved in until we can return. Landlord wanted to be able to get into the house when she would be at work-she said no-reschedule when she would be home. Owner became verbally abusive to her at place of employment- then called us and insisted that we fly back right then-husband had major surgery-2 weeks prior-explained that to landlord, we agreed no one in the house unless someone was home. Landlord said he wanted us out of house-right then. The next week we received a certified letter raising rent 40%! We have never been late with our rent. The house suffered hurricaine damage from Georges-there is mold on the walls, and the carpets got wet and mildewed. Landlord knows this-an insurance adjuster came in and took pictures. Owner refinished the outside of the house, did nothing inside

except have the carpets cleaned as a temporary measure because he did not have the money for new carpets.Nothing has been done.

Is this increase a retalitory move? We had a rent increase in July. We gave 30 day notice to vacate. Basically he has left us without a home to return to. Can we seek damages?


Asked on 3/17/99, 11:34 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Alexander M. Rosenfeld Rosenfeld & Stein, P.A.

Re: 40% rent increase

Without a lease you are a tenant at will. You are suject to being dispossed upon appropriate notice. You may insist on a hearing before a judge. That will delay the ultimate date of reckoning. Ifyou wish to discuss this further call me at 305-940-8080.

Alexander M. Rosenfeld

Rosenfeld & Stein, P.A.

18260 NE 19 Ave


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Answered on 4/05/99, 3:04 pm


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