If you're a Florida landlord facing a non-paying tenant, one of the first questions you need answered is how much this is going to cost. The honest answer: it depends on whether your tenant fights back. This page breaks down every cost involved in a Florida eviction so you can plan and move forward without surprises.
Cost 1 — Filing Fee The filing fee to file a Complaint for Eviction with the Clerk of Court is approximately $185, plus $10 per defendant named in the complaint. This is the baseline cost every eviction starts with regardless of county.
Cost 2 — Service of Process The county Sheriff typically charges $40 per defendant to serve the Summons and Complaint. If you use a private certified process server instead, costs range from $45 to $75 depending on location and speed of service.
Cost 3 — Writ of Possession Once you obtain a Final Judgment, delivering the Writ of Possession to the Sheriff costs $90 in most Florida counties. This is the fee that gets the tenant physically removed from the property.
Cost 4 — Document Preparation Landlords who prepare their own documents risk errors that cause dismissal, costing them weeks of additional lost rent. Professional document preparation services typically cost $200 to $300 and provide court-ready, pre-filled forms that reduce that risk significantly.
Cost 5 — Attorney Fees (if contested) If your tenant files a written response and the case goes to a hearing, attorney fees typically range from $500 to $1,500 for an uncontested hearing, and significantly more if the tenant mounts a defense. Possession-only cases are simpler and less expensive than cases also seeking back rent.
Cost 6 — Lost Rent During the Process This is the largest cost most landlords underestimate. An uncontested eviction in Florida takes 4 to 6 weeks. Every week of delay is a week of lost rent. The faster and more accurately you file, the less rent you lose.
Uncontested eviction, self-filing: $235 to $310 in court and sheriff fees
With document preparation service: $435 to $610 total
Contested eviction with attorney: $1,500 to $3,000+
Average lost rent during process: 1 to 2 months depending on speed
Filing before the 3-day notice has fully expired, forcing you to restart and lose additional weeks of rent
Using the wrong summons form, causing dismissal and re-filing fees
Attempting to handle a contested eviction without an attorney
Waiting too long to file after the notice expires. Every day costs you rent
Accepting partial payment after serving the notice, invalidating the notice and restarting the clock
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1 Question: How fast can I sell my property after an eviction in Florida? Answer: A cash sale can close in as little as 7 to 14 days after eviction. No repairs, no listings, no waiting for buyer financing.
Q2 Question: Do I have to fix the property before selling after an eviction? Answer: Not if you sell to a cash buyer. Cash buyers purchase properties as-is, including damage left by tenants.
Q3 Question: What is my property worth after an eviction in Florida? Answer: Value depends on condition, location, and market. A quick consultation can give you a realistic number with no obligation.
Q4 Question: Can I sell a property that still has tenant belongings inside? Answer: Yes. A cash buyer can purchase the property as-is. They handle the cleanout so you don't have to.
Q5 Question: How long does it take to find a new tenant after an eviction? Answer: Typically 30 to 60 days including repairs, listing, screening, and lease signing — longer if the property needs significant work.
Q6 Question: Should I sell or re-rent after an eviction in Florida? Answer: It depends on your situation. If you're tired of managing the property, a fast sale may make more sense than another tenant cycle.
Q7 Question: What if my property was damaged during the eviction? Answer: Document everything with photos immediately. You may have a claim against the tenant and a cash buyer can still purchase as-is.
Q8 Question: Is a cash offer for my property negotiable? Answer: Yes. A cash offer is a starting point for a conversation, not a take-it-or-leave-it ultimatum.
What to know the process in YOUR county?
Evictions Done For You is a document preparation service, not a law firm. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. For questions about your specific situation, consult a licensed Florida attorney.