QUESTION
Am I entitled to my deposits for a rental left early when there’s no signed contract and no damages have been noted?
Asked on Feb 05th, 2026 on Landlord and Tenant Law - Florida
More details to this question:
I signed 2 separate leases for a years 2023-2024, and 2024-2025. Deposits cover damage fees and 1 month rent. My landlord who lives in California came to visit in June of 2025. He asked me at that time, if I would remain another year ( July 2025-2026). I replied I would likely stay, but he never provided a third lease for signature. In October’25 , I indicated on October 27th i was searching for a home to buy and I would move by November 30, 2025. I sent another note November 7th and a second November 9th. He refused to return my deposit of 6,800 dollars, stating I left early (July ‘26). Can the landlord hold my deposits since he did not provide one for me to sign? I provided over 2 weeks notice.
1 ANSWER
Consumer Debt Collector Harassment & Abuse Attorney serving Tampa, FL
Partner at
Tischhauser Law Group
2 Awards
Yes. If they refuse to return it because he claims there was a renewal and you breached, that will depend on the details of the prior lease language and your statement that "I would likely stay" and whether that constitutes a renewal. Otherwise, you are a month to month tenant from July 2025 when the lease expired. They do not have to address deposit returns until 30 days after you vacate the premises. You do not get your money back for moving expenses so you can move. You may have to retain a lawyer to address this if this is not resolved between you.
Answered on Feb 09th, 2026 at 12:07 PM