Some Florida Landlords Are Resorting to Illegal Tactics To Try to Force Tenants Out During Coronavirus Eviction Bans

It is no secret that 2020 has caused enormous financial burdens on landlords and tenants. While many tenants have been protected from eviction by the legal bans enacted by federal and state governments, landlords have no such protections and have been left to bear the burden of unpaid rent. Unfortunately, some landlords have chosen to fall back on illegal tactics to try to force tenants out of their homes. Learn more about your legal rights as a tenant, the illegal tactics that some landlords are using, and what you can do to enforce your legal right to stay in your home.

The  Miami New Times reports on a particularly blatant case of landlord abuse that occurred in North Miami Beach. A couple was enjoying television together when the power suddenly went out. Other houses on the block had power, and the electric company confirmed that it had no shut off the power, either. The tenants then found a lock placed on their circuit breaker. The landlord had illegally placed it there in an attempt to force the tenants out of the property. (Florida law prevents landlords from shutting off utilities that make the property habitable, such as water, heat, and electricity.)

With help from the Miami Tenants Union and Community Legal Project, the tenants were able to file a lawsuit against the landlord. The case was eventually settled with compensation for the illegal utility shut off and forgiveness of the couple’s back rent owed.

This is just one example of the many tactics that desperate landlords are falling back on. Despite the financial pressures of the global pandemic, landlords can not threaten or coerce tenants to leave their homes, even if rent is past due. Tenants should consult with the experienced Florida tenants’ rights lawyers at Quattrocchi and Torres to protect their legal rights. Contact us online or call 407.452.4918 to schedule your free consultation.