Withholding Rent Legalities Explained

Summary

In Florida, landlords must maintain habitable premises. Tenants can withhold rent if repairs arent made. Landlords arent required to relocate tenants during repairs but may do so out of goodwill. If a home is uninhabitable, tenants can break the lease without penalty and may sue for rent reduction or damages. For specific advice, consult a local attorney. Contact the Florida State Bar Associations Pro Bono Program for pro bono legal assistance.

Full Conversation

i have questions about withholding rent, as well as we have a plumbing issue in multiple areas of our home, and im curious if they need to redo the entire plumbing, is the landlord mandated to put us in a hotel while being fixed?
Hello Danielle,
In Florida, landlords are legally obligated to maintain the premises in a habitable condition. Here are some key points:
- You may withhold rent if the landlord does not make necessary repairs.
- The landlord is not required to relocate tenants during repairs, but they might do so out of goodwill.
- Always communicate your intentions in writing before taking action.
Please consult a local attorney for more detailed advice.
what happens if home is deemed inhabitual?
If a home is deemed uninhabitable in Florida, here are some key points:
- The landlord is obligated to make necessary repairs.
- If not done, tenants may be able to break their lease without penalty.
- In some cases, the court may allow tenants to withhold rent.
Please consult a local attorney for specific advice.
does the landlord have to pay us back out money
In Florida, if a landlord doesn't repair uninhabitable conditions, tenants may be able to:
- Break their lease without penalty
- Sue for a rent reduction or return of rent paid
Please consult a local attorney for specific advice.
what happens if landlord refuses to repair, and we are homeless with two kids due to his negligance
In Florida, if a landlord refuses to repair and the home is uninhabitable, you may:
- Break your lease without penalty
- Sue the landlord for damages, which could include costs of temporary housing
- Report to local health or building code department
Please consult a local attorney for specific advice.
can you connect me to a pro bono lawyer in my area
I'm sorry, but as a legal information provider, I'm unable to connect you directly to a pro bono lawyer. However, you can contact the Florida State Bar Association's Pro Bono Program for assistance. Their website is www.floridabar.org/public/probono/.