Fort White, FL Security Deposit Laws 2026
Florida limits security deposits to 2 month(s) of rent. In Fort White, that's $2,636 at the median 2BR rent of $1,318/month. Miss the 15-day return deadline and you could owe $2,636+.
In Florida, landlords must return security deposits within 15 days after move-out. The maximum deposit is 2 month(s) of rent. Failure to return on time or provide an itemized statement can result in penalties of $2,636 or more.
Key Takeaways — Fort White Security Deposit Laws
- Maximum deposit: 2 month(s) of rent = $2,636 at Fort White's median rent
- Return deadline: 15 days after tenant moves out
- Penalty for late return: Up to 2x the deposit ($2,636)
- Itemized statement: Required with any deductions
Security Deposit Laws in Fort White
Under Florida law, landlords in Fort White may collect a maximum security deposit of 2 month(s) of rent. At Fort White's median 2-bedroom rent of $1,318/month, that means the most you can legally collect is $2,636.
$2,636
max deposit (2mo × $1,318)
15 days
return deadline
$2,636
max penalty for late return
Returning the Deposit: The 15-Day Clock
Once a tenant moves out of your Fort White rental, Florida law gives you exactly 15 days to either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions. The clock starts on the day the tenant surrenders possession — not when you inspect the unit.
What you can deduct from a security deposit in Fort White:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning costs to restore the unit to move-in condition
- Costs for restoring or replacing personal property (if lease allows)
What you cannot deduct:
- Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs, carpet wear, faded paint)
- Pre-existing damage (document with photos at move-in)
- Professional cleaning if the tenant left the unit in reasonable condition
Penalty Warning
Violate Florida security deposit laws rules in Fort White and you could owe $2,636+. At Fort White's median rent of $1,318/month, even a single violation adds up fast.
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How Fort White Rents Affect Deposit Amounts
Deposit amounts scale with local rents. Here's what Fort White landlords typically collect:
| Unit Size | Median Rent (Fort White) | Max Deposit (2mo) | Penalty Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $990/mo | $1,980 | $3,960 |
| 1-Bedroom | $1,034/mo | $2,068 | $4,136 |
| 2-Bedroom | $1,318/mo | $2,636 | $5,272 |
| 3-Bedroom | $1,580/mo | $3,160 | $6,320 |
Rents based on HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for Columbia County.
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More Fort White Landlord Laws
Security Deposit Laws in Nearby Cities
Own properties in multiple cities? Rules may differ locally:
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Download Free ChecklistReviewed by Rachid Abadli
Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019
LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
