![](\"https:\/\/www.google-analytics.com\/__utm.gif?utmac=UA-5828686-4&utmdt=Florida+lawmakers+passes+security+deposit+alternative+bill+for+renters&utme=8(APIKey)9(MDA4MzU1MzUzMDEzMTkyMzAwMzY5MjY1Mw004)\")
<\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":14623,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"tdm_status":"","tdm_grid_status":"","wds_primary_category":0},"categories":[],"tags":[1136,1135],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nA bill (HB 133) that lets landlords charge fees instead of security deposits heads to the governor\u2019s desk Friday. Senators voted to pass the bill 31-7.<\/p>\n
Supporters of the bill say the legislation allows people to get into apartments more easily without having to pay a chunk of money upfront.<\/p>\n
Republican bill sponsor James Vernon Mooney says the practice is already happening. His measure puts protections in place and could save Floridians thousands.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis bill literally puts guardrails on existing processes ongoing around the State of Florida,\u201d said Mooney. \u201cThis will make sure that the tenants that do take the opportunity to do it in lieu of a security deposit, will be protected as is if they paid their security deposit and that is the bill.\u201d<\/p>\n
Under HB 133, landlords could use the money to purchase insurance to cover small repairs. The bill notes that the plan is not required, nor refundable meaning that while renters typically hope to get a security deposit back when they move out, they\u2019ll get no money back if they go the fee route.<\/p>\n
Democratic Rep. Dianne Hart argues that the bill gives landlords too much leverage. She says without a cap, owners could take advantage of low-income tenants.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou had me for a moment, but I have to vote down on this bill today because I understand that there are too many ways for those of us who makes money off the back of our constituents, that we could do better,\u201d said Hart. \u201cI just think we need to force these big companies to do a little bit better.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mooney said renters should expect to pay based on the current market average. He said he\u2019s seen fees as low as $11 and as high as $25 monthly fee on a $1,500-a-month lease. He says fees are a part of everyday life.<\/p>\n
\u201cGuess what\u2026parking fees, dog fees, fob fees, spa fees, pool fees; they are everywhere,\u201d said Mooney. \u201cThis is not a junk fee. This gets you and your family to where you need to be at that moment\u2026period.\u201d<\/p>\n
The measure would apply to any rental agreements made or renewed after July 1 of this year. <\/p>\n
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