The law in plain English
Return deadline
Under Fla. Stat. Sections 83.43(14), 83.49, 83.491, the deposit response usually has to be sent within 30 days of the move-out timeline described by the state rule.
Required notice
Florida generally requires a written claim notice within 30 days by certified mail if the landlord intends to impose deductions on the deposit.
This dispute type
Pet-related deposit disputes usually turn on proof. In Florida, landlords still need to handle the refund and deduction notice correctly, and renters usually ask whether the charge reflects actual damage or just the landlord's assumption that pets always create extra cost.
Penalty leverage
If the withholding was wrongful or in bad faith, the exposure allowed under the statute is: Landlord forfeits the right to claim any deductions