- Get to Know FRLS
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- Get to Know FRLS
- Get to Know FRLS
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- Get to Know FRLS
Housing Law at FRLS
Eviction, foreclosure, and discrimination are common legal issues when it comes to housing. But you don't have to face your housing issues alone...
Whether you're a tenant or a homeowner, knowing how to navigate and defend against unlawful acts is essential. Start by understanding your rights and responsibilities under the law.
Get Free Legal Help With Housing at FRLS!
We protect qualified Florida residents from being unfairly evicted, protect renters with disabilities, combat unlawful fees, secure safe housing conditions, stop illegal lockouts and shutoffs, preserve public housing, defend mortgage foreclosures, terminations of tenancy, and more.
Important Note: On this page, you will find a summary of Florida's Landlord/Tenant Law. It is not intended for the purpose of providing legal advice. For additional information, refer to Chapter 83, Part II, Florida Statutes (F.S.).
Know Your Rights as a Florida Tenant
FRLS assists tenants with a range of civil legal disputes that can often arise with landlords, from stopping illegal lockouts and utilities shutoffs to challenging wrongful eviction notices.
Your landlord can’t legally force you out of your housing without first going to court. An eviction action must go to court, even if the tenant is behind on their rent. No shortcuts, no excuses!
Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated on July 17, 2025
My landlord is not making repairs. What can I do?
What can a landlord do if I get behind on rent?
I paid rent on time, but my landlord claims I have violated the lease for another reason. What can my landlord do?
Can my landlord shut off the utilities or change the locks?
Upcoming Housing Law Events
Get in-person legal help at an upcoming clinic in your area:
Third Friday of Each Month, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Ask-a-Lawyer Clinic
Martin County, FL
Topic: Housing Cases
(One-on-One Appointment)
News Releases & Client Stories
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.
Sponsor Recognition Disclaimer
Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization. We gratefully acknowledge the generous support of our sponsors and partners. In accordance with IRS regulations and Florida Statute 496.411, all sponsor recognition provided by FRLS is value-neutral and non-promotional.
Sponsor acknowledgments may include the sponsor’s name, logo, website, contact information, and general location. FRLS does not promote, endorse, or advertise any sponsor’s services or products. No calls to action, qualitative claims, pricing information, or comparative language will be used in any recognition content. This ensures full compliance with charitable solicitation laws and helps protect the integrity of our mission. For questions regarding sponsorship or this policy, please contact the FRLS Marketing & Communications Department at Marketing@FRLS.org .
Service areas: Lee, Polk, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Indian River, Highlands, Hardee, Hendry, Charlotte, Desoto, and Glade Counties.
© 2025