For four years, our client rented his home on a month‑to‑month basis. But after Hurricane Milton, the property became increasingly unlivable. A hole in the ceiling left from storm damage, a broken air‑conditioning unit, and carpet beginning to mildew from a neighboring unit’s leak created unsafe and unhealthy conditions. Despite repeated requests, the landlord refused to make repairs.
When the tenant fell one month behind on rent, he attempted to pay the amount owed. The landlord refused the payment and instead increased the balance due. On that same day, the tenant received a three‑day eviction notice.
Unsure of what to do, he contacted Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS). FRLS is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to qualified individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties and to farmworkers statewide.
Our team explained what landlords are legally permitted to do and what they are not. With our guidance, the client filed an answer to the eviction and deposited the rent into the court registry as required.
Despite his compliance, the judge issued a default judgment in favor of the landlord on the same day. FRLS filed an emergency motion to vacate the judgment and quash the writ of possession.
The judge granted the motion, paused the eviction, and scheduled a hearing. At the hearing, the eviction was dismissed. The landlord then issued a notice of lease termination, giving the tenant 30 days to find a new place to live.
Disaster‑related housing issues can quickly escalate without legal support. FRLS continues to help tenants understand their rights, challenge unlawful evictions, and secure safe housing. Apply for help at FRLS.org or call 1‑888‑582‑3410.