Can landlord in FL specify that lease is for one person only?

Question

Hi All, is it legal for landlords to specify that the lease is for one person only? For example, if the landlord has a small studio apartment, is that a valid reason to refuse to rent to couples without being accused of discriminatory?

Thanks

Tim Baldwin · Answer

When Fair Housing laws apply to you, be mindful of how limiting the unit to 1 person may impact you, because you could be setting yourself up to a fair housing complaint, and even if you prevail on the matter, just having to go through the process may be more than you bargain for. Of course, if your local ordinances restrict occupancy numbers, you can safely follow those ordinances.

Ray Hage · Answer

Yes, you can make it for one person. Just make sure that it is clearly in your ad as well. Of course, boyfriends/girlfriends happen so just have to be mindful if your tenant decides to move someone in without permission. I've dealt with this problem before.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

As long as you have justification and you apply the standard equally to all applicants, you should be fine.

1. Fair Housing may not apply to you: https://www.equalhousing.org/fair-housing-topics/exemptions-...

2. Even if Fair Housing does apply, there are valid reasons for limiting occupancy. Read the Keating Memo for more information: https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/DOC_7780.PDF

Can landlord in FL specify that lease is for one person only?

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