What to Include in a Florida Lease Agreement: Key Clauses Every Landlord Should Use
Creating a clear and thorough lease agreement is one of the most important steps for Florida landlords. Whether you’re managing a single-family rental in Lake Nona or an apartment in Deltona, the lease sets the rules—and protects both you and your tenants.
This guide covers the essential clauses every Florida landlord should include, using simple terms and local insights.
Why a Strong Lease Agreement Matters in Florida
A well-written lease does more than outline rent—it helps avoid disputes, enforce rules, and stay legally compliant. In Florida, rental laws vary slightly by city, so it’s smart to include everything upfront.
Clauses Every Florida Lease Should Include
1. Names of All Tenants
Make sure every adult living on the property is listed by name and signs the lease. This gives you legal protection if issues arise later.
2. Property Description
Clearly define the rental address, what areas are included (like parking spots or storage), and what’s excluded.
3. Lease Term
State the start and end dates. If it's month-to-month or a fixed term (like 12 months), say so.
4. Rent Amount & Due Date
Spell out:
How much rent is due
When it's due
Where or how it should be paid (online, check, Zelle, etc.)
Grace periods and late fees
5. Security Deposit Terms
Include:
The deposit amount
Where it’s held (as required by Florida law)
When and how it will be returned
Reasons for any deductions (e.g. excessive damage, unpaid rent)
6. Maintenance Responsibilities
Clarify who handles:
Lawn care
Appliance repairs
Pest control
Also state that tenants must report problems quickly to avoid bigger issues.
7. Entry to Property
Florida law requires at least 12 hours’ notice before entering the property (except in emergencies). Include this notice rule in the lease.
8. Rules on Pets, Smoking, and Guests
Be clear about:
Whether pets are allowed (and pet deposits)
Smoking policy (inside and outside)
Guest stay limits (especially for long-term visitors)
9. Subletting or Lease Assignment
If you don’t allow subletting, say it clearly. If you do, define the process and approval requirements.
10. Renewal & Termination Terms
State what happens at the end of the lease:
Will it auto-renew?
How much notice is required to end the lease?
Include early termination fees if applicable.
11. Eviction Process
Mention that failure to pay rent, major lease violations, or illegal activity may result in eviction. Align this with Florida’s eviction laws.
Optional Clauses Landlords in Florida May Want to Add
HOA Rules (if applicable)
If the rental is in a community with an HOA, provide a copy of the rules and state that tenants must follow them.
Mold Disclosure or Prevention
Due to Florida’s climate, it’s smart to include a clause about tenant responsibility for ventilation and mold reporting.
Hurricane Preparation
You might include a brief section on what tenants should do if a storm approaches (like securing outdoor items).
Tips for Landlords Drafting a Lease
Use plain language—avoid legal jargon.
Go over the lease with tenants before signing.
Keep digital and physical copies.
Customize it to the city—DeBary may have different expectations than St. Cloud.
FAQs About What to Include in a Florida Lease Agreement
What is legally required in a Florida lease agreement?
At minimum, it must include the tenant and landlord names, rent amount, lease term, and property address. Florida also requires disclosure of security deposit handling and certain legal notices.
Can a Florida lease include pet restrictions?
Yes. You can ban pets entirely or allow them with rules (e.g., breed restrictions, pet deposit).
Do you have to notarize a lease in Florida?
No. Lease agreements do not need to be notarized to be valid in Florida.
Can I include an early termination fee in a Florida lease?
Yes, but it must be clearly outlined in the agreement and comply with state laws.
FAQs About MainStreet Realty
What areas does MainStreet Realty serve?
We serve property owners, investors, and tenants across Orlando, Lake Nona, Deltona, St. Cloud, DeLand, Kissimmee, and DeBary.
Does MainStreet Realty help draft lease agreements?
Absolutely. We help landlords create custom, legally sound lease agreements that protect your rental and reduce risk.
Can you help manage my rental property in Central Florida?
Yes! Our full-service property management takes care of everything—from leasing to inspections to maintenance.
Need Help with a Lease? MainStreet Realty Has You Covered.
Whether you're managing one home or ten, a strong lease agreement is your first line of defense. Let MainStreet Realty help you stay compliant, protect your property, and build great tenant relationships.
Serving Orlando, Kissimmee, DeLand, Lake Nona, and beyond
Contact us today at MainStreet.Rentals to get started!
Email: [email protected]
Address: 2 Volusia Drive Debary, FL, 32713
Phone Number: Orlando: 407-789-0925 | Volusia: 386-259-2426 | Lake:352-729-1425
