Florida lacks a specific bed bug statute, but landlords must maintain habitable rental units under FL §83.51. Miami-Dade Code Compliance enforces minimum housing standards under Chapter 17. Tenants can demand treatment in writing and withhold rent only after statutory notice procedures.
Under Florida Residential Landlord-Tenant Act §83.51, landlords must keep rentals in good repair and pest-free at the start of tenancy and during the term, including bed bugs in multi-unit buildings where the source is not solely the tenant. Tenants must give written 7-day notice before withholding rent. Miami-Dade Chapter 17 minimum housing code allows Code Compliance to inspect and order pest treatment in rentals. Treatment typically requires licensed PCO heat or chemical service across affected and adjacent units, since bed bugs migrate through walls. Hotel infestations are reportable to DBPR and can trigger room closures.
Landlords ignoring written notice can face Code Compliance citations, tenant rent withholding, constructive eviction claims, and DBPR action against hotel licenses.
Miami-Dade County, FL
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See how Miami-Dade County's bed-bug rules rules stack up against other locations.
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