New Flood Disclosure Requirements Every Florida Landlord Should Know

If you own rental property in Pinellas County, a new state law could directly affect how you handle lease agreements moving forward. Beginning in 2025, Florida Statute §83.512 requires landlords to provide tenants with a written flood disclosure before entering into most long-term leases.

This law is designed to promote transparency in flood-prone areas and protect both landlords and tenants when it comes to property risk and insurance coverage.

What the Law Requires

Under the statute, landlords must complete and deliver a flood disclosure form to prospective tenants before or at the time a rental agreement of one year or more is signed.

This document must be separate from the lease and clearly outline the landlord’s knowledge of the property’s flood history, any related insurance claims, and whether federal assistance has ever been received for flood damage.

The disclosure also reminds tenants that standard renters’ insurance does not cover flood damage, urging them to consider separate flood insurance.

In simple terms:

• Every long-term lease must include a written flood disclosure form.

• The form must be signed and provided before the lease is finalized.

• Even if a property has never flooded, the landlord still must complete the form and indicate “no known flooding.”

Why This Matters for Landlords and Investors

For landlords and property investors in coastal areas like St. Petersburg, Madeira Beach, Dunedin, and Largo, flood risk is a real consideration — and this new law formalizes how that information must be shared.

Here’s why compliance matters:

1. Legal protection: Providing accurate disclosures helps prevent future disputes or claims of misrepresentation.

2. Transparency builds trust: Tenants appreciate honesty about property history, which can improve relationships and reduce turnover.

3. Avoiding penalties and lease disputes: If a tenant experiences flood damage and wasn’t properly informed, they may have the right to terminate the lease and recover prepaid rent.

4. Better risk assessment: Knowing a property’s flood history helps investors evaluate insurance costs, maintenance budgets, and long-term return on investment.

Tenant Rights Under the Statute

If flooding causes major damage and the landlord didn’t provide the required disclosure, tenants have the right to terminate the lease.

A “substantial loss” is defined as damage where the cost to repair or replace personal belongings equals 50% or more of their value at the time of flooding.

In that situation:

• The tenant must provide written notice and vacate the unit within 30 days.

• The landlord must refund prepaid rent for the remaining term.

• The tenant remains liable for any past-due rent or other unpaid amounts owed before the termination date.

This provision reinforces why accurate, timely disclosure is crucial for landlords — not just as a best practice, but as a legal obligation.

Best Practices for Compliance

To protect your investment and maintain professionalism as a landlord:

• Use a standardized flood disclosure form for every qualifying lease.

• Keep records of insurance claims, repair work, or FEMA assistance related to flood events.

• Be proactive — even if the property hasn’t flooded, disclose any known drainage issues or stormwater problems.

• Consult your property manager or attorney to ensure your lease packages are updated and compliant.

• Encourage tenants to explore flood insurance, especially in flood zones or low-lying neighborhoods.

Taking these steps now can prevent expensive disputes later and demonstrate to your tenants that you operate with integrity and transparency.

Pinellas County Properties and Flood Awareness

Many Pinellas County communities sit at or near sea level, which increases the likelihood of standing water after storms or heavy rain. Landlords with properties in Shore Acres, Treasure Island, Clearwater Beach, and similar areas should treat flood disclosure as an essential part of every lease transaction.

Even inland properties can be affected by poor drainage or seasonal flooding, so these requirements apply widely — not just to waterfront rentals.

Where to Read the Full Law

You can review the complete text of the new statute on the Florida Legislature’s official website:
➡️ Florida Statute §83.512 – Disclosure of Flood Risks to Prospective Tenant of Residential Real Property

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Laws may change, and every property is different. Landlords and investors should consult a licensed Florida attorney, real estate broker, or property manager for guidance on how this law applies to their specific situation.