In today’s economy it is tough to make ends meet financially. Many people who were scraping by during the past two years benefited from the eviction moratorium that allowed them to stay in their homes even if they were behind on their rent. Now, however, the moratorium has ended, and many are finding themselves facing eviction.
The eviction problem in the U.S.
According to Legal Services Corp., in August and September the number of eviction filings rose and are now greater than the historical averages in 50% of counties tracked. Now that federal rental assistance funds have gone dry and people cannot afford the soaring costs of rent and increasing inflation, eviction is a stark reality for some renters.
One census survey found that almost 7.8 million people in the U.S. reported having fallen behind on their rent in October. Of these, 3 million believed there was a good chance they could be evicted in November or December. That same survey reported that 2.5 million renters stated their rent went up over $500 in the past year.
Eviction rights in Florida
Still, tenants have rights in Florida even if they are facing eviction. A landlord cannot take self-help measures such as removing doors or changing locks. They must give tenants proper notice of the pending eviction. Florida law states tenants must receive a three-day notice, a seven-day notice with a chance to pay what they owe or an unconditional quit seven-day notice.
It is incredibly difficult to be facing eviction. If you have been served with an eviction notice, know that there is legal help available to help you understand your options for addressing the eviction in a manner that best meets your needs.