Orlando is a prime location to be a landlord, considering nearly four in ten people here rent their homes or live in apartments (per BestNeighborhood.org). So, if you recently invested in a rental property here, you made a wise choice.
However, to ensure your investment generates good income, you and your tenants must keep it well-maintained.
You read that right! Orlando renters also have legal tenant maintenance duties and repair responsibilities.
So then, what repairs are tenants responsible for? And what can you do if they don't satisfy their property maintenance and repair responsibilities in Orlando?
Verandah Properties will explain what tenants must fix and how to handle renter-caused damages, so please read on.
What Repairs Are Tenants Responsible For?
Florida Statutes 83.52 codifies tenant repair obligations and rental property maintenance responsibilities. Under this law, renters in Orlando or elsewhere in the Sunshine State must:
- Keep plumbing fixtures clean, sanitary, and in repair
- Use all critical systems (e.g., plumbing, sanitation, HVAC, and electrical) in a reasonable manner
- Use the rental's facilities and appliances in a reasonable manner
- Not intentionally destroy or damage the landlord's property and belongings or allow anyone to do so
A tenant's failure to comply with the above can lead to expensive rental repairs in Orlando, FL. In this case, landlords can hold the renter liable for the property damage they cause due to their non-compliance and negligence.
For instance, suppose one of your renters hosted a party at your rental property. Unfortunately, some of their guests were too rowdy and spilled wine and food all over the carpets. In this case, repairing or replacing your now-damaged carpets will be your tenant's responsibility.
What Are Your Options for Tenant-Caused Damage?
Your first option is to speak with your tenant regarding their failure to maintain and keep the property in good repair. Give them a chance to correct the problem, especially if they have been good tenants. Alternatively, you can tell them you'll use part of their security deposit to cover the repairs.
If your tenant disagrees or complains, your next option is to serve them a 7-day eviction notice. The notice must explain their violation and that they have seven days to correct it or move out.
If the violation is too severe to "cure" (e.g., it renders the unit uninhabitable), you can serve them a 7-day unconditional quit notice. In this case, they won't have the chance to remedy the issue and must vacate the premises.
If the non-compliant tenant fails to follow the notice's terms, you can proceed with the eviction case.
Let Verandah Properties Help Protect Your Rental
And there you have it-the guide answering the question, "What repairs are tenants responsible for in Orlando, FL?" Now you know renters are responsible for repairing damages they cause intentionally or negligently.
However, you shouldn't wait until it's too late and your renters damage your property. Instead, partner with Verandah Properties, our full-service property management firm.
Established in 2003, Verandah Properties has the expertise, knowledge, technology, and tools to keep your Orlando property in top condition. We'll screen prospective tenants thoroughly to help ensure they're responsible and highly qualified. We'll also oversee your rental's maintenance and repairs.
Chat with us today to schedule your free property consultation!