Key Takeaways
Review your screening process now so you are prepared before Florida's fraudulent entry law takes effect on October 1, 2026.
Keep complete application records because documentation can support lease enforcement if fraudulent entry is discovered.
Update your lease documents with a qualified Florida attorney to help ensure they reflect current state requirements.
Remember that the new law complements thorough tenant screening rather than replacing consistent verification practices.
Owning rental property in Kissimmee means staying informed about legal updates that can affect your investment.
One of the newest changes to Florida law addresses a growing concern for landlords: applicants who gain possession of a rental by using false information or fraudulent documents.
Beginning October 1, 2026, Florida's new fraudulent entry law gives property owners additional legal protections when someone secures a rental through deception.
Understanding how the law works can help you strengthen your screening process and respond appropriately if fraud is discovered.
Understanding Florida's New Fraudulent Entry Law
CS for SB 1224 creates Section 817.537 of the Florida Statutes, making it a criminal offense to obtain possession of a residential rental through intentional fraud.
The law applies when someone knowingly provides materially false information on a rental application, submits forged or counterfeit documents such as identification or income records, or impersonates another person to sign a lease or take possession of a rental home.
A violation of this statute is classified as a third-degree felony under Florida law.
Why This Matters for Kissimmee Rental Property Owners
Fraudulent rental applications can create expensive delays and unnecessary legal complications.
Before this law, landlords often had to rely on the standard eviction process even after discovering that a tenant obtained the property through deception.
The new legislation gives landlords a clearer path forward. It also updates Florida Statute 83.56 by recognizing fraudulent entry as a serious form of lease noncompliance.
If a landlord discovers that possession was obtained through fraud, they may issue a written seven-day notice terminating the lease without offering the tenant an opportunity to correct the violation.
Importantly, the law allows landlords to proceed with lease termination whether or not criminal charges have been filed.
Following the Proper Termination Process
Although the law provides stronger protections, landlords must still follow the required legal procedures. A written notice must state that the lease is terminated, identify the fraudulent conduct, and provide seven days for the occupant to vacate.
Keeping thorough records from the application process is essential because documentation may be needed if the termination is later challenged.
Copies of rental applications, identification, income verification, and supporting correspondence can all help demonstrate why the lease was terminated.
Strong Screening Is Still Your Best Protection
The new law does not replace careful tenant screening. Instead, it reinforces why consistent screening practices remain one of the best ways to protect a rental property.
Verifying identity, reviewing income documentation, confirming rental history, and looking for inconsistencies before approving an application can reduce the likelihood of fraudulent applicants reaching the lease signing stage.
A consistent screening process also creates a stronger paper trail if fraud is later discovered.
Review Your Lease Documents
Lease agreements should support your screening procedures by clearly requiring applicants and residents to provide truthful information throughout the application process.
While Florida law now provides additional remedies for fraudulent entry, well-written lease language and complete documentation help support enforcement when issues arise.
If your lease forms have not been reviewed recently, it may be worthwhile to consult a qualified Florida attorney to ensure they reflect current state law.
Preparing Before the Law Takes Effect
With the October 1, 2026 effective date approaching, now is a good time to review your rental procedures. Evaluate your application forms to confirm they collect the information needed to verify identity and income.
Review your screening process for consistency, maintain organized application records, and make sure your lease documents align with current Florida requirements. Taking these steps now can help protect your investment and simplify future lease enforcement if fraudulent activity is uncovered.
Final Thoughts
Florida's new fraudulent entry law gives landlords another tool for addressing applicants who intentionally obtain rental housing through deception.
Combined with thorough screening practices, accurate documentation, and well-prepared lease agreements, this legislation can help property owners respond more effectively when fraud occurs.
If you own rental property in Kissimmee or the surrounding Central Florida area, Allegiant Management Group can help you build screening and management practices that reflect current Florida requirements.
Contact Allegiant Management Group to learn how professional property management can help protect your investment and keep your rental operations moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should Landlords Do If They Suspect A Rental Application Contains Fraud?
If you discover information that suggests an applicant used false documents or intentionally misrepresented material facts, avoid making immediate assumptions or taking informal action.
Instead, gather and preserve all relevant documentation, including the application, identification, income verification, communications, and any supporting records.
If fraud is discovered after possession has been granted, Florida's new law may provide additional legal remedies, but landlords should still follow the required legal procedures and consider consulting a qualified Florida attorney before taking action.
How Can Landlords Strengthen Their Screening Process Without Violating Fair Housing Laws?
A strong screening process focuses on consistency rather than making decisions on a case-by-case basis.
Applying the same written qualification standards to every applicant, verifying identity and income, checking rental history when appropriate, and maintaining detailed documentation can help reduce the risk of fraudulent applications.
Property owners should ensure their screening criteria comply with federal, state, and local Fair Housing requirements while remaining consistent throughout the application process.
Does The New Law Replace Florida's Standard Eviction Process?
Not necessarily. The legislation creates a criminal offense for obtaining possession of a rental property through intentional fraud and recognizes fraudulent entry as a serious lease violation under Florida law.
However, landlords must still follow the applicable legal procedures for lease termination, including providing the required notice when the law applies.
Every situation is different, so property owners should seek legal guidance when questions arise about the appropriate process.
Why Is Recordkeeping So Important For Rental Property Owners?
Detailed records can become valuable if questions arise about an application or lease. Maintaining organized copies of rental applications, identity verification, income documentation, correspondence, and signed lease agreements creates a clear timeline of events.
Good documentation may also simplify conversations with legal counsel and support compliance with applicable laws. Whether you self-manage or work with a professional property manager, consistent recordkeeping is an important part of protecting your rental investment.
Should Existing Lease Agreements Be Updated Before October 1, 2026?
Reviewing lease documents before new legislation takes effect is generally a good practice. Property owners may benefit from having lease agreements reviewed by a qualified Florida attorney to determine whether updates are appropriate under current law.
Well-written lease documents, combined with consistent screening procedures and accurate documentation, can support better compliance and clearer expectations throughout the leasing process.
Because every property and ownership situation differs, legal guidance should be tailored to your specific circumstances.
How Can Professional Property Management Help Reduce The Risk Of Fraudulent Applications?
Professional property management companies like Allegiant Management Group often use standardized leasing procedures that include identity verification, income verification, application review, documentation management, and consistent recordkeeping.
These practices may help identify application inconsistencies before a lease is signed while supporting compliance with current legal requirements.
We also provide comprehensive property management services in Florida, including tenant screening, lease administration, maintenance coordination, accounting, and compliance support for rental properties.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Florida laws may change, and individual circumstances can affect how the law applies. Property owners should consult a qualified Florida attorney regarding lease agreements, tenant screening, lease terminations, or other legal matters.
