Just about all professions will require that individuals abide by at least some amount of legal rules and regulations – and the same holds true if you are a landlord in Florida. In this case, there are actually a long list of do’s and don’ts. So, it is important to make sure that you follow these laws carefully.
Some of the top responsibilities include:
Complying with Anti-Discrimination Laws
Prior to advertising an empty home or apartment unit, it is essential to have a good understanding of the fair housing laws, as well as what you may and may not do or say when you are choosing your tenant(s).
In this case, while you are allowed to turn down applicants for various reasons – such as having poor credit and / or other factors that could make them a risk to you – you are not allowed to discriminate against a possible tenant based on the following factors:
- Race
- Religion
- Gender
- Family status
- Disability
- National origin
Following the Rent Rules Set Forth by the State
While you certainly would like for your tenant(s) to pay their rent on time – as well as to provide you with an amount each month that will cover your expenses, and allow for a profit – there are still some state rent rules that need to be followed.
Here, for instance, if you will have to evict a tenant, or even raise the amount of rent that you are presently charging, you must follow the state law. This includes giving the tenant at least three days to pay their rent due before filing for an eviction.
Providing Habitable Housing
It is also required by law in Florida that landlords provide “habitable housing” for their tenants. This means that you will have to ensure that important repairs are made, and that there are no dangers – such as exposed wiring – in the unit.
Although being a landlord can require some time and effort – both physically and legally – there is a way that you can delegate many of these responsibilities by hiring a professional property manager.
For more details on how a Florida property management company can allow you more time to pursue other avenues – while still profiting from your real estate investments – give us a call today.
