Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a): Defective or late claim notice forfeits the right to impose a claim against the deposit, but not a separate damages action

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Reviewed: 2026-08-11

How sources are checked →

Deadline context

15/30 days

Possible remedy

Claim against deposit may be forfeited

Primary statute

Fla. Stat. § 83.49

Official section source

What the cited source addresses

Defective or late claim notice forfeits the right to impose a claim against the deposit, but not a separate damages action.

Read the current official section

How to review this source with your facts

Check what the current source says about missing statutory steps and available remedies.
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Frequently asked questions

Questions to compare with the current source before using the citation in a letter or filing.

What does Fla. Stat. § 83.49(3)(a) address?

Defective or late claim notice forfeits the right to impose a claim against the deposit, but not a separate damages action. Open the current official text to check coverage, definitions, and exceptions for your situation.

How long does a Florida landlord have to return the deposit?

15 days to return the deposit if no claim; 30 days to send a claim notice by certified mail or qualifying email (15/30 days).

Could a penalty or other remedy apply?

Loss of the right to impose a claim against the deposit for a defective or late claim notice; a separate damages action is preserved. Check the source's required facts, conditions, notices, defenses, and remedy language before relying on it.

Next steps

Check the current source, calculate the relevant dates, and organize the records you may reference.

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