Landlord-Tenant Law Services in Winter Haven
Start With A Winter Haven Eviction Attorney
Our Winter Haven eviction attorney team helps landlords and tenants navigate
Florida landlord tenant law with clear, practical advice. Floyd, Sammons & Spanjers works with property owners, managers, and renters across Polk County to resolve late rent, lease violations, and other rental disputes the right way. Led by attorney Craig Spanjers, we focus on fair, efficient solutions that follow the law and protect your long term interests.
Eviction Guidance For Polk County Landlords
If you are a landlord dealing with nonpayment or serious lease violations, our Polk County landlord lawyer can walk you through each step of the Florida eviction process. We prepare and review the correct notices, make sure they are served properly, and file your eviction case in the right Polk County court so it does not get delayed for technical reasons. From the first 3 day or 7 day notice through the final hearing, you know what is happening and what to expect at every stage.
After The Eviction: Possession And Recovery
Regaining possession of the property is only part of the story for many landlords in Winter Haven, Lakeland, and nearby communities. Floyd, Sammons & Spanjers can advise you on handling abandoned property, applying the security deposit under Florida law, and deciding whether it makes sense to pursue a separate case for unpaid rent or damage. Our goal is to help you move forward quickly with a clear plan that fits both the law and the realities of your rental business.
Legal Help For Tenants Across Polk County
Tenants in Polk County also turn to our firm when they face serious issues like unsafe living conditions, wrongful eviction attempts, or a landlord who will not return a security deposit. We explain your rights in plain English, review your lease, and help you decide whether a letter, negotiation, or a court case is the best path. Whether you rent an apartment near the Chain of Lakes or a mobile home along US 17, we want you to understand your options before you act.
Renters' Rights, Repairs, And Security Deposits
Florida tenants have a right to a habitable home, which includes working plumbing, reasonable cooling, and a safe structure. If repairs are not being made, we can help you prepare proper written notices and decide if withholding rent or ending the lease is allowed in your situation. For
security deposit disputes, our team reviews move out statements, damage claims, and timelines so you know whether to demand the deposit and how to enforce that demand if needed.
Clear Lease Agreements For Landlords And Tenants
Many landlord tenant problems in Winter Haven start with a vague or outdated lease. Floyd, Sammons & Spanjers drafts and reviews residential leases that follow Florida law and clearly define rent due dates, late fees, pets, maintenance, and other key terms. We can also review leases for tenants before they sign, explain what each section means, and suggest changes if something is unbalanced.
Find us at 1556 6th Street SE, Winter Haven, FL 33880 with convenient parking. From Lakeland, take US-98 South toward Winter Haven and follow signs to 6th Street SE. From Bartow, head north on FL-17 into Winter Haven and continue to 6th Street SE; from Orlando, travel I-4 West to US-27 South, then west toward Winter Haven.
Directions & Service Area
Settling Rental Disputes Outside Of Court
Not every disagreement between a landlord and a tenant needs a long court battle. Our firm often negotiates payment plans, agreed move out dates, or temporary changes to a lease that work for both sides and keep costs down. When both parties can still talk, a fair settlement can save time, money, and stress for everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I evict a tenant in Florida?
A simple nonpayment eviction in Florida can sometimes be completed in four to five weeks if every step is done correctly. Mistakes in the notice, service, or court paperwork can add weeks of delay or cause the case to be dismissed. Working with our Winter Haven eviction attorney team helps you avoid those problems and keep the process on track.
What can I do if my tenant refuses to pay or leave?
You must follow the legal eviction process in Polk County and should not change locks, shut off utilities, or remove belongings on your own. We prepare the proper notices and file an eviction so the court and sheriff can act when required. This approach protects your rights and keeps you from facing penalties for illegal self help.
Can a tenant withhold rent for repairs in Florida?
Tenants may be able to withhold rent if serious repairs are not made, but the law has strict notice and timing rules. You must give written notice describing the problem and allow a set number of days for the landlord to fix it before withholding rent. We guide both landlords and tenants on how to handle needed repairs without making the situation worse.
What reasons can a landlord use to evict a tenant in Florida?
Common reasons include nonpayment of rent, serious lease violations like damage or unauthorized occupants, and illegal activity on the property. In month to month situations, a landlord may end the tenancy by giving proper advance notice even without a violation. Our Polk County landlord lawyer explains whether your reason fits the law and which notice you must use.
Do I need a lawyer for a security deposit dispute?
For smaller security deposit disputes, you can use small claims court on your own, but the rules can still be confusing. A lawyer can help you write a strong demand letter, gather proof like photos and emails, and prepare your claim the right way. In many cases, clear legal communication leads to a resolution without ever filing a lawsuit.