Building Codes & Habitability — Florida
Warranty of habitability, repair obligations, and city rental programs
State Habitability Standard
Florida Statutes §83.51 — landlord's obligation to maintain premises
Fla. Stat. §§ 83.51, 83.56
Minimum Habitability Requirements
- Comply with applicable building, housing, and health codes
- Maintain roofs, windows, doors, floors, steps, porches in good repair
- Maintain screens and plumbing in good working condition
- Maintain facilities for heat in winter, running water, and hot water
- Exterminate rodents, wood-destroying organisms, and vermin
- Working smoke detection devices in each unit
Repair Obligations & Tenant Remedies
20
Days Landlord Has to Repair
Before tenant may use repair-and-deduct remedy
Rent Withholding
Rent withholding permitted under state law for serious habitability failures
City-Level Rental Programs
Some cities require rental registration, periodic inspections, or have specific habitability ordinances beyond state law. Enter your city to check for a local program.
Known Florida cities in our database: check major cities in Florida above for city-specific programs.
Governing Statute
Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Fla. Stat. §§ 83.40–83.682)
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