Eviction vs. Ejectment: Navigating Property Disputes in Florida

Florida’s sunny weather beckon many to its shores, promising serene beach days and balmy nights. Yet, for landlords and property owners, the Sunshine State can sometimes present legal clouds when dealing with property disputes. Eviction and ejectment are two legal actions that may appear similar but are fundamentally different. Understanding these differences is crucial in choosing the correct legal path and ensuring a resolution that is both swift and just.

The Basics of Eviction in Florida

Eviction is the process through which a landlord seeks to remove a tenant from the rental property. It is a legal procedure reserved for situations where there is a clear landlord-tenant relationship. This relationship is typically defined by a lease agreement—written or verbal—where the tenant agrees to pay rent in exchange for inhabiting the property.

However, an eviction can only be filed if specific criteria are met:

1. Existence of a Lease: A lease solidifies the landlord-tenant relationship. Even without rent payment, a signed lease is legally binding.
2. Rent Payment: If no written lease exists, rent payment can establish tenancy. This payment isn’t limited to money and can include an exchange of services or goods.

Should there be a failure to establish a landlord-tenant relationship, the road to eviction is legally closed. Landlords in such scenarios must seek alternative solutions.

Ejectment: The Alternative When There’s No Lease

Ejectment comes into play when someone occupies a property without a landlord-tenant relationship—often without the owner’s consent or a valid legal claim, but make some claim to title of the property. Unlike eviction, ejectment is used when:

• The occupant has no lease or claim of tenancy, but may have some claim to title.
• The occupant might claim some right to the property that isn’t based on renting or leasing from the owner.

Ejectment suits are common when, for example, a person buys a property at auction and needs to remove the former owners who refuse to leave. In essence, ejectment is about resolving a dispute where one party’s entitlement to the property is unclear or non-existent.

Distinguishing Between Eviction and Ejectment

Criteria for Eviction:

• Lease Agreement: Explicit or implied.
• Rent: Payment is evidence of a landlord-tenant relationship.
• Legal Grounds: Non-payment of rent, violation of lease terms, etc.

Criteria for Ejectment:

• No Lease: Occupant has no lease agreement.
• No Rent: Occupant doesn’t pay rent or provide services.
• Claim to Property: Occupant asserts a non-tenant claim to the property.

Legal Actions: Steps to Take

For Eviction:

• Serve a proper eviction notice as required by Florida statutes.
• File an eviction lawsuit if the tenant does not comply with the notice.
• Obtain a court order to remove the tenant if necessary.

For Ejectment:

• File a complaint in the appropriate court.
• Serve the occupant with a summons and the complaint.
• Pursue a court order to remove the occupant if they do not have a valid defense.

Speak With a Florida Ejectment Attorney

At Morey Law Firm, our team of experienced landlord-tenant attorneys understand the nuances of Florida property law. We know that missteps in choosing the wrong legal procedure can be costly and extend the dispute unnecessarily. Our advice is to consult with an expert before taking action.

Should you file an eviction notice or pursue an ejectment suit? The answer hinges on the specifics of your property and occupant situation. Eviction and ejectment are distinct legal actions meant for different circumstances involving property disputes in Florida. While eviction is designed for situations with a landlord-tenant dynamic, ejectment is suitable for removing occupants with no legal tenancy claims, but who may have an ownership claim. Property owners must carefully consider their situation before proceeding to ensure they choose the correct legal path.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation regarding your case, please submit a case evaluation or call our offices directly. Don’t navigate the tricky waters of property law alone; let our expertise guide you to a resolution that puts your property back in your control.