After a hurricane or severe storm damages rental housing, tenants often ask whether their landlord must provide alternative housing if the lease is terminated.
The answer under Florida law is generally no.
Landlords Usually Do Not Have to Provide Replacement Housing
If a lease is terminated because the rental unit is severely damaged or destroyed, landlords are typically not required to provide another place to live.
However, there are still options tenants may want to explore.
Ask If the Landlord Has Other Rental Properties
Some landlords own multiple properties.
If your landlord rents other homes or apartments, you may want to ask:
- Are any other units available?
- Would I qualify to move into another property?
- Would the lease terms change?
This option may provide a faster housing solution if other rentals are available.
Disaster Housing Assistance May Be Available
If you do not have another place to stay, you may qualify for temporary housing assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
You can apply with the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
FEMA assistance may include:
- Temporary housing support
- Rental assistance
- Home repair assistance
- Replacement of essential belongings
You can apply by:
- Calling 1-800-621-3362
- TTY: 1-800-462-7585
- Visiting www.fema.gov/apply
What If FEMA Denies Your Application?
If FEMA denies your disaster assistance application, you may still have options.
You may be able to:
- File an appeal
- Provide additional documentation
- Request reconsideration
Because the appeals process can be complicated, speaking with a legal professional can help you understand your rights.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to take the place of legal advice. It is designed to inform you with basic information regarding hurricane preparedness and ways to protect yourself as a homeowner or renter after a disaster.
Need Legal Help?
Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to eligible individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties, as well as to farmworkers statewide.
FRLS office locations:
- Belle Glade
- Fort Myers
- Port St. Lucie
- Immokalee
- Lakeland
- West Palm Beach
Our offices serve the following counties: Lee, Polk, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Indian River, Highlands, Hardee, Hendry, Charlotte, Desoto, and Glades.
You can contact us on our Intake Hotline at 1-888-582-3410.