Is the landlord allowed to change the locks or shut off utilities if the tenant does not pay rent?
No the landlord is not allowed to use self-help eviction practices. According to Florida Statutes the landlord is prohibited from directly or indirectly interrupting utilities to the tenant such as water, electric, gas, heat, or garbage collection. Also the landlord is prohibited from changing the lock or throwing the tenants personal property on the street without a proper eviction process unless the tenant surrendered or abandoned the premises. If a landlord engages in self-help evcition he is liable to the tenant for actual and inconsequential damages or three times the rental amount, whichever is greater plus costs and attorney fees.
Related Questions
- If the rent is in arrears up to 8 weeks (or more) and the tenant spends the arrears, can the landlord claim any back pay for the Local Authority?
- Is the landlord allowed to change the locks or shut off utilities if the tenant does not pay rent?
- What can a landlord do if a tenant doesn pay their rent on time?
