What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
Beginning October 1, 2025, a new Florida law will require landlords to provide flood disclosures to prospective tenants before signing a residential lease of one year or longer. This new legislation aims to increase transparency and help renters make informed decisions about properties that may carry a flood risk.
For both landlords and tenants, understanding this change is crucial — failure to comply could have real financial consequences.
Key Requirements of the New Law
Under the new statute, landlords must provide a written flood disclosure form that clearly states what they know about the property’s flood history. Specifically, landlords must disclose whether, during their ownership of the property, they:
- Have knowledge that the property has previously flooded;
- Have filed a flood insurance claim for damage to the property; and
- Have received any government assistance (such as from FEMA) for flood damage.
This disclosure must be made in writing to the tenant before the lease is signed.
What Happens If a Landlord Fails to Disclose
If a landlord does not provide the required flood disclosure and the tenant’s personal property suffers substantial flood damage, the tenant has the right to:
- Terminate the lease, and
- Receive a refund of any advance payments (such as a security deposit or prepaid rent).
However, the tenant is still responsible for any rent owed before the termination date.
This means landlords could lose rental income and face administrative headaches if they skip this step.
Who Is Affected
- Applies to residential rental properties with leases of one year or longer.
- Based on the landlord’s actual knowledge during ownership — landlords aren’t required to conduct independent flood research, but they must disclose what they know.
- Applies to leases signed on or after October 1, 2025.
Why This Matters
Flooding is a significant risk in many parts of Florida, and renters often assume a landlord’s insurance covers personal belongings — which it typically does not.
This law helps tenants understand potential risks upfront while encouraging landlords to maintain clear documentation and open communication.
For landlords, compliance protects against disputes, lease terminations, and potential claims for damages.
How Landlords Can Prepare Now
- Gather information about the property’s flood history, insurance claims, or government assistance.
- Update lease templates to include the new flood disclosure form.
- Train property managers or leasing agents to provide this disclosure before tenants sign.
- Consult with an attorney to ensure your lease complies with all upcoming changes in Florida landlord-tenant law.
Vaughn Law PLLC Can Help
At Vaughn Law PLLC, we help landlords and tenants navigate Florida’s complex real estate and rental laws. Our team can review your lease agreements, prepare compliant disclosure forms, and ensure you’re ready for this new requirement before it takes effect.
📅 Effective Date: October 1, 2025
📍 Applies To: Residential leases of one year or longer
For questions or guidance on complying with this new law, contact Vaughn Law PLLC today.
By: Danielle L. Vaughn, Board Certified Real Estate Attorney