Violette Law Firm Landlord & Tenant Law

Sarasota Landlord/Tenant Law Attorney

Serving Clients in Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice Areas and Beyond

Florida landlord-tenant law encompasses a set of legal rules and regulations defining the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. These laws are crucial for both parties to understand, as they offer clear guidelines on what each party should expect during a lease or rental agreement.

For landlords, these rules stipulate their responsibilities regarding property maintenance, respecting tenant’s privacy, and eviction proceedings. Conversely, tenants are informed of their rental payment obligations, property care requirements, and rights in case of a dispute. 

Issues and disputes can arise in any landlord/tenant relationship. Legal intervention may be needed when these cannot be resolved through communication between the parties. At Violette Law Firm, you can turn to a real estate lawyer with more than 1 years of experience in this field.

Whether you are a landlord, a management company, or a tenant, we can help. Attorney C. Ryan Violette can protect your rights, negotiate on your behalf, or take your case to civil court to pursue your best interests. 

Call today at (941) 365-6563 or fill out our online contact form. We offer appointments by phone, in person, or a virtual conversation. 

Landlord/Tenant Law in Florida

Landlord/tenant law is covered by the Florida Statutes Chapter 83 Part II, which outlines all aspects of the residential landlord-tenant relationship in the state. As a tenant or a landlord, a lack of knowledge about your rights and obligations under the law can expose you to legal trouble. 

Unfortunately, disagreements between landlords and tenants over issues can escalate into a full-blown dispute and even time-consuming, costly, and stressful litigation. Thus, the first step in any disagreement is ensuring you understand the law. 

Common landlord-tenant conflicts can arise over: 

  • Non-payment or late payment of rent
  • Property damage beyond normal wear and tear
  • Lease violations, such as unapproved subletting
  • Disputes over security deposits
  • Violation of privacy rights
  • Failure to maintain the property leading to inhabitable conditions

For example, landlords are allowed by law as to how much they can charge for security deposits. However, they must return these deposits to tenants within a month after the tenant moves out. Should they fail to do so, tenants have the right to sue a landlord for the return of their deposit. 

Florida also requires landlords to give tenants 12 hours’ notice before they can enter the tenant’s unit. They are also subject to specific procedures for dealing with any tenant property left behind in a rental property after a tenant has vacated. 

Tenants must pay rent on time as agreed in their lease or rental agreement, keep their rental property clean and not cause any damage beyond what is deemed normal wear and tear, and behave in a manner that does not disturb the peaceful enjoyment of other tenants. Tenants can face eviction for violating housing health and safety codes or engaging in illegal activity on the rental property, such as selling drugs. 

Commonly Asked Questions

What should I do if I have a dispute with my landlord in Venice?

If you find yourself in a dispute with your landlord in Venice, the first step is to review your lease agreement and understand your rights under Florida law. Open communication is essential; try to resolve the issue directly with your landlord. If that fails, consider documenting the dispute and seeking legal advice. A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your options, whether it’s negotiating a resolution or pursuing legal action. Remember, timely intervention can prevent disputes from escalating into costly litigation.

What are the responsibilities of landlords in Sarasota regarding property maintenance?

In Sarasota, landlords are legally obligated to maintain their rental properties in a habitable condition. This includes making reasonable provisions for plumbing and heating systems. Landlords must also address any repairs needed to keep the property safe and livable. Failure to meet these responsibilities can lead to disputes with tenants. Understanding these obligations is vital for landlords to avoid legal complications and maintain good tenant relationships.

How can I find a reliable attorney for landlord-tenant issues in the Sarasota area?

Finding a reliable attorney for landlord-tenant issues in Sarasota involves researching local law firms that focus on real estate law. Look for attorneys with a strong track record in handling landlord-tenant disputes and positive client reviews. It’s beneficial to schedule consultations to discuss your specific situation and gauge their understanding of Florida landlord-tenant law. A good attorney can provide clear guidance on your rights and obligations, helping you navigate any legal challenges effectively. Choosing the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Violette Law Firm

Why Choose Violette Law Firm?

  • Your Trusted Real Estate Partner
    Licensed in real estate, we offer a specialized focus on property law, ensuring that your real estate transactions are handled with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail.
  • Proven Track Record

    Over the past 14 years, we have built a solid reputation based on our successful outcomes and satisfied clients. Trust us to navigate the complexities of the legal system with skill and confidence.

  • Free & Convenient Consultations
    We believe in accessibility. Take advantage of our complimentary virtual consultations, where you can discuss your legal concerns from the comfort of your own space, at no cost to you.
  • Local Roots, Broad Reach

    As born and raised attorneys in the community, we understand the unique needs of our clients. Our commitment extends beyond local boundaries, providing comprehensive legal solutions. 

Resolving Landlord/Tenant Disputes

When disputes arise, the first step towards resolution is often a discussion between the involved parties. This can be conducted between the parties or with the help of attorneys. 

If this fails, mediation or arbitration can be considered. Legal action may be required in more complex situations, and Florida law provides clear procedures for this, including eviction proceedings.

If you need legal help with a landlord-tenant matter, our firm is committed to providing comprehensive assistance to achieve the best possible outcome. We strive to resolve your case as efficiently as possible without the need for litigation. However, should all efforts at this fail, our attorney is fully capable of preparing and presenting your case before a civil court judge. 

You can reach Violette Law Firm online or at (941) 365-6563 for legal guidance today. 

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