Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Florida

landlord law

i am currently renting one of my property to a doctor. she has failed to pay rent for the last 2 months despite repeated phone calls. can i change the locks without letting her know? what options do i have in this case


Asked on 6/28/07, 5:48 am

4 Answers from Attorneys

David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: landlord law

No , you must start eviction action in court.

Read more
Answered on 6/28/07, 6:39 am
rajeshwar sharma rajeshwarnathsharma

Re: landlord law

You cannot take the law in your own hands. File ejectment case in the court.

Read more
Answered on 6/28/07, 9:14 am
Lorne Cabinsky Law Offices Of Lorne S. Cabinsky, P.A.

Re: landlord law

No you can't you must file for eviction and follow the statute which means first giving her a three day notice.. Please contact my office we do evictions.

Read more
Answered on 6/28/07, 10:02 am
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: landlord law

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such nformation, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

Absolutely not. Florida does not allow a landlord to change the locks due to non-payment of rent. If you do, you will face severe penalties.

You must first give the tenant a three day notice pursuant to Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes and section 83.20. Then you can file a suit for eviction and for damages due to non payment of rent. If you are incorporated, you must use and attorney to file the suit. If not, it is not required, however, it is highly recommended.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

Read more
Answered on 7/06/07, 9:08 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Landlord & Tenants questions and answers in Florida