Florida has officially become the first state in the nation to criminalize rental application fraud through the passage of HB 1293, now codified as Chapter 2026-143. This legislation is a significant win for property owners and managers, as it elevates the act of providing fraudulent information on a rental application to a felony offense.
Legislation·Statewide
New Florida Law Criminalizes Rental Application Fraud
As of October 1, 2026, Florida has implemented new legislation that makes rental application fraud a felony. This provides property managers with stronger legal recourse when dealing with falsified tenant information.
By FLN News Desk
November 5, 2026Updated Nov 12, 20261 min read
Beyond the criminal implications, the new law classifies fraudulent entry of a residential dwelling unit as a non-curable lease violation. This allows landlords to bypass the traditional cure period and move directly toward eviction proceedings if a tenant is found to have gained entry through deceptive means. This change is intended to protect housing providers from the financial and operational risks associated with bad-faith applicants.
Property managers are encouraged to review their current screening processes and lease agreements to ensure they are fully leveraging these new protections. By integrating clear language regarding the consequences of application fraud, managers can better deter dishonest applicants and streamline the enforcement of lease terms when violations occur.
Disclaimer: Florida Landlord Network is a non-attorney service. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Florida attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
