In the sunny state of Florida, rent regulations are absent, but emerging laws could alter notice requirements for landlords. Keep reading to learn how to adjust rental rates while keeping tenants satisfied.

2024 updates to Florida’s rent increase guidelines

The state of Florida currently lacks rent control regulations that place limits on rent hikes. This means that a landlord can raise the rent to any amount and does not have to give notice to their tenants. In a significant new development this year, the proposed bills HB 1417 and SB 1586 would require landlords give advance notice to their residents before raising rents.

Another way this act will reshape Florida rental laws is by prohibiting landlords from ending a month-to-month lease period without giving the tenant 30 days’ notice of termination. Landlords should stay current with new rental laws following the conclusion of each legislative season. 

How to raise rental prices in Florida

Extending a 30-day notice before adjusting rental rates is considered good tenancy etiquette and standard practice. Before the lease term expires, plan ahead and follow these steps to raise rents in Florida efficiently.

Step one: Determine new rental rates

Ensure that your rent covers your mortgage and property taxes. If the current rent covers the previously mentioned expenses, assess your actual maintenance and repair budget from the previous year. If affected, consider your cash flow and anticipated costs.

Think about the market trends as you enter the new lease term. A surge in housing demand and a decrease in inventory can potentially elevate rates or push the economy into a precarious state.

What are the rental prices for other nearby 12-month leases with similar amenities? Whether you are overseeing a fixed, month-to-month, or week-by-week lease, it is essential to do research to arrive at a fair rate.

Step two: Prepare the notice for the annual rent hikes

After determining your rental price, draft the required documents in writing. Hyperlink your rent increase notice. The decision to provide a brief explanation for the rent hike is at the landlord’s discretion. 

Step three: Notify your tenant of the rent increase

To facilitate effective communication with your current tenants, provide at minimum a 30-day notice in writing, notifying them of the rent hike.

Resolving issues about rent control

Florida, a subtropical haven, has experienced a net increase in population over the past few years. The absence of rent regulations and significant annual rent increases since 2020 have made it challenging for many locals to secure affordable housing, leading to an uptick in landlord-tenant disputes in the state.

As a landlord, your primary objectives are to maintain a steady rental income, ensure tenant satisfaction, and prevent disputes. Listening to tenant concerns can help mitigate various issues. To ease the blow of rental increases, clearly communicate to tenants that economic factors and market rates are influencing the adjustment. If you’ve undertaken significant property repairs or plan to invest in new appliances, these are valid reasons to justify a higher rent. 

If your tenant is facing challenges paying rent amid a housing crisis or you require assistance navigating the rental process, consider exploring various resources before resorting to legal advice. Here are some helpful sources for addressing rental-related issues:

• Florida landlord-tenant laws
• Public emergencies and natural disaster assistance
• Residential lease agreement for single-family home or duplex
• Rent Guarantee for securing rental payments

FAQ: Florida rent increase guidelines for landlords