What to Know Before Moving to a Florida Apartment
Don’t Sign That Lease Until You Read This
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Moving to Florida? Get ready for sunshine, palm trees… and some surprising differences when it comes to apartment living. If you’re relocating from the northern U.S., you might be used to snow shoveling and radiator heat—but Florida brings an entirely different set of rental considerations. Before you sign that lease, here are some critical things to ask, inspect, and prepare for so you can move in with confidence.
1. Understand How Water Flows (Literally)
Florida’s flat terrain and sudden downpours can lead to serious water drainage issues. When touring an apartment, try visiting during or right after a rainstorm. Notice how water drains across the property—and ask the leasing office whether the complex is in a flood zone.
🚨 Red flags to watch for:
Pooling water in parking lots
Past flood incidents in ground-floor units
Lack of water management systems like sump pumps or water sensors
If you’re eyeing a ground-level unit, find out whether flood insurance is required or recommended. A few questions now can save you thousands later.
2. Hurricane Preparedness is a Must
Unlike up north, hurricane season in Florida is a real concern. Ask your future landlord or property manager how they prepare for severe weather:
Do they install hurricane shutters or board up windows?
Who secures patio furniture and other loose items?
What’s their communication strategy during a storm?
What kind of storm damage has the property endured in the past?
Find out how quickly repairs were made after previous hurricanes. When disaster strikes, fast action and clear communication can make all the difference.
3. Renters Insurance: Required and Regulated
Many Florida apartment complexes require renters insurance—and not having it can lead to automatic enrollment (and extra charges) without much notice. Ask:
What’s the required coverage level?
Will they auto-enroll you if you don’t provide proof?
Is insurance included in your rent?
Also, clarify late rent policies. Some places charge late fees immediately, while others may begin eviction proceedings within days. And don’t forget to ask about autopay, service fees, and online payment platforms.
4. Know Who’s Responsible for What
Maintenance expectations in Florida rentals often differ from other states. Be crystal clear on who handles:
Air filter replacements
Mold remediation
A/C repair timelines
Pest control and extermination
Emergency repairs outside business hours
If you have pets, ask if you can be present during maintenance visits—especially if they involve someone entering your apartment.
Also, pests are more than a nuisance in Florida—they’re part of daily life. Find out how often pest control is performed and whether it includes both the inside and outside of your unit.
5. Utility Billing Might Surprise You
In many Florida apartments, utilities don’t always function the way you’d expect. Instead of each tenant paying for their individual water use, some complexes split the bill evenly among all units—or charge admin fees on top of normal usage.
Key questions to ask:
Who bills for utilities—the city or the apartment complex?
What’s included in your rent (water, trash, sewer)?
Are there extra fees or service charges?
Understanding your utility setup ahead of time helps avoid unexpected costs after move-in.
6. Parking Isn’t Always Straightforward
Don’t assume your new apartment comes with a parking spot. Some complexes charge extra for reserved spots or garages. Others operate on a first-come, first-served basis, which can be tricky in high-traffic or tourist-heavy areas.
Ask:
Are spaces assigned or open?
Is there guest parking?
Are there fees for reserved or covered parking?
7. Know Your Rights—and the Community
Florida landlord-tenant laws vary by county, so it’s smart to read up on your rights. Understand the process for:
Security deposit returns
Rent increases and lease renewals
Lease termination and penalties
Before committing, visit the property at different times of day and try chatting with current residents. Ask about noise, safety, and management responsiveness. You’re not being nosy—you’re being proactive about your quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Renting in Florida can be an amazing experience, but the details matter. From storm prep and pest control to utility billing and parking, it’s essential to ask the right questions up front.
Remember: just because it worked one way up north doesn’t mean it works that way here. Do your homework, read the fine print, and prepare for the quirks of Sunshine State living.
Copyright © 2025 Hometown News, All rights reserved.
Return to Main Blog Page >