What you need to know about eviction laws in Florida, from the costs to timeline, and more.
When a tenant stops paying rent, it can be a frustrating and stressful experience. In Florida, landlords must follow a legal process to move forward with an eviction. Understanding the steps involved can make the situation more manageable and ensure everything is handled properly. Here’s a breakdown of the eviction process in Jacksonville, including key timelines and costs.
Three-day notice. The first step in the eviction process is serving a three-day notice. This notice is posted on the tenant’s door and delivered in person. It informs the tenant that they have three days to pay rent before further legal action is taken. If payment is not received within this period, the next step is filing for eviction.
“Legal guidance can prevent costly mistakes in eviction cases.”
If an eviction is necessary, it ultimately results in a writ of possession, which allows the sheriff to remove the tenant from the property. However, many tenants voluntarily leave once they receive an eviction notice, abandoning the property before law enforcement gets involved. When this happens, landlords often need to clean up and prepare the home for the next renter.
Eviction costs. The cost of an eviction in Jacksonville typically ranges from $700 to $1,000. Several factors can affect the final amount, including the number of occupants, whether dependents are involved, and the lease terms. For example, if a tenant is on a month-to-month lease or a holdover lease, additional legal considerations may affect costs.
Local attorneys specializing in evictions handle most cases, ensuring the process is followed correctly. While prices can vary, having professional legal assistance helps avoid delays and complications.
Eviction timeline. The eviction process in Jacksonville generally takes about 30 to 35 days. If rent is due on the first of the month and remains unpaid by the 13th, an eviction can be filed on the 14th. From that point, landlords can expect to regain possession of the property by mid-April.
A common question is whether landlords can accept partial or full rent payments once an eviction has been filed. The answer is no. Accepting payment stops the eviction process, forcing the landlord to start over from the beginning. While tenants may still have an eviction record even if payment is made, restarting the process can cause unnecessary delays.
Need help with an eviction? Handling an eviction alone can be overwhelming, especially for landlords managing their properties. If you have questions or need guidance, please reach out. You can call or text me at 904-650-3890 or send an email to Matty@PursuitRealEstate.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
