What Is the Timeline for the Eviction Process in Florida?

Florida evictions follow a fast court process, but the timeline depends on the type of notice, whether the tenant responds, and the court's schedule.

The first step is a written notice from the landlord. The type of notice depends on the reason:

• Unpaid rent: the tenant has 3 days, not counting Saturdays, Sundays, and court holidays, to pay or move out.

• A lease violation the tenant can fix: the tenant has 7 days to correct it.

• A serious violation the tenant cannot fix, or a repeat violation within 12 months of a written warning: the landlord may end the lease, and the tenant has 7 days to move out. Starting October 1, 2026, this includes moving in through fraudulent entry, such as using a fake identity, forged documents, or impersonation, whether or not criminal charges have been filed.

If the tenant does not leave, the landlord can file an eviction complaint in the county court where the property is located. Florida law gives these cases a fast summary procedure. The tenant must file an answer within 5 days after being served. If the tenant raises any defense other than payment, the tenant must also pay the rent alleged in the complaint into the court registry, or ask the court to set the amount, within 5 days after service, not counting Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. If the tenant does not, the landlord is entitled to a default judgment for possession.

If the court rules for the landlord, the clerk issues a writ of possession. The sheriff posts a 24 hour notice on the property and then puts the landlord back in possession. Weekends and holidays do not pause that 24 hour period.

Please schedule a consultation to speak with an attorney for a more detailed time frame.