Tenant at Will

Definition: A Tenant at Sufferance is a person who remains in possession of a rental property **after their lawful tenancy has expired**, without the landlord’s consent but before being formally evicted. This type of tenant is also called a “holdover tenant.” While they no longer have a legal right to occupy the property, the landlord must still follow proper legal procedures, such as eviction, to regain possession.

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Tenant at Will in Florida

Tenant at will: occupies with consent, no fixed term. Either party terminates with notice. FL residential: 15 days notice (Section 83.57). Commercial: per payment period (Section 83.03). Arises: oral agreement, holdover with rent acceptance, or implied tenancy. Oral leases: enforceable up to 1 year (Statute of Frauds). Protections: Chapter 83 applies, no self-help (Section 83.67), and fair housing (Chapter 760). No right beyond notice period.

What It Is

Notice Requirements

Protections

Related Terms

Barnes Walker Real Estate

Barnes Walker’s attorneys handle at-will tenancies in Florida. Request a legal inquiry for assistance.

Florida Law Reference

Fla. Stat. Ch. 83, Part II

The Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs lease agreements, security deposits, maintenance obligations, and the eviction process.

Fla. Stat. Ch. 732

Governs the execution requirements for valid wills in Florida, intestate succession, the elective share, and the rights of pretermitted spouses and children.

Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC

Disclaimer: The information and opinions provided are for general educational, informational or entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or a substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney. Any information that you read does not create an attorney-client relationship with Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC, or any of its attorneys. Because laws, regulations, and court interpretations may change over time, the definitions and explanations provided here may not reflect the most current legal standards. The application of law varies depending on your particular facts and jurisdiction. For advice regarding your specific situation, please contact one of our Florida attorneys for personalized guidance.

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