In Florida, there are specific rules landlords must follow when it comes to lease renewals and giving proper notice. Ignoring these rules can result in automatic lease extensions, as well as missed chances to raise rent and change terms.
Automatic renewals can catch you off guard
Many fixed-term leases in Florida have automatic renewal clauses that can extend the lease for another term if neither the landlord nor the tenant gives notice. Sometimes, a lease may even renew under the same terms for another full year. If you’re not paying close attention to when a lease is set to expire, it could renew automatically, leaving you stuck with the same tenant and rent rate longer than you planned.
To avoid surprises, always review the lease terms well before the expiration date and note any automatic renewal language. If you don’t want the lease to renew automatically, you need to take action early, which could mean giving the tenant written notice or offering a new lease with different terms.
Know the notice requirements
Florida law does not set one rule for all lease types, but it does require notice based on the length of the lease:
- Week-to-week leases: At least 7 days’ notice
- Month-to-month leases: At least 15 days’ notice
- Quarterly leases: At least 30 days’ notice
- Yearly leases: At least 60 days’ notice
Landlords must give this notice before the end of the current rental period. If you miss the window, the lease could roll over, and you may have to wait longer to make any changes or end the agreement.
To keep your options open, put reminders in your calendar at least 10 to 15 days before the required notice period begins. That gives you time to decide whether to renew, update the lease, or end it altogether.
The best way to avoid unintended lease extensions is to stay organized. Regularly review the terms of leases and communicate clearly with tenants. When you plan ahead, you keep full control over your rental property and protect your long-term goals.
