I need to break my lease in Florida. My lease if for 1 year. In my lease it doesn't specify what is done when a lease is broken. It does say that it follows Florida Statute Chapter 83 section II for everything not covered in the lease. I read through the chapter and it doesn't say what happens when a lease is broken either... unless you are a servicemember... which I am not. So what can happen to me if I need to move?

The general expectation is that you'll be charged for the apartment until it is re-rented or until the end of your lease period, whichever comes first.

I suggest going to your landlord to see if he/she will offer you a buyout.

In Florida the landlord can make a legal claim for all the rent, as if you were living there. There is no legal obligation on the landlord's part to re-rent the dwelling and refund you the difference. So your choices are to attempt to renegotiate a settlement with the landlord (get it in writing too) or, if your lease permits, sublet it to someone you trust who would pay you the rent, which you would then forward it to the landlord. Some landlords require signed leases here only because it lets them out of the hassle of paying a tax and they aren't really interested in holding you to the financial obligation so I would inquire with the landlord. Be straight forward and business like about it but know that they don't have any obligation to let you out of the contract.

Ditto VAL... you need to have an honest and frank discussion with your landlord about your options.

Thanks all. Your question and answers may help my daughter and son-in-law down near Tampa. They have a two year lease that they are six months into and need to move over towards Orlando for better job situation.

Thanks again.

I need to break my lease in florida. My lease if for 1 year. In my lease it doesn't specify what is done when a lease is broken. It does say that it follows Florida Statute Chapter 83 section II for everything not covered in the lease. I read through the chapter and it doesnt say what happens when a lease is broken either...unless you are a servicemember...which i am not. So what can happen to me if I need to move?
Did u find an answer to your question. I need the same answer.

Hello Vickie:

The answer is you can be held to the agreement you signed.

excon