Florida’s New Fraudulent Entry Law (HB 1293): What Landlords & Tenants Need to Know
Florida has enacted Chapter 2026-143 (House Bill 1293), introducing strict legal penalties for rental application fraud and fake lease documents. Signed into law on June 12, 2026, this legislation creates a brand-new crime—Fraudulent Entry of a Residential Dwelling Unit (s. 817.537, F.S.)—and gives landlords immediate termination rights under Florida’s landlord-tenant statutes.
Below is a breakdown of how Florida HB 1293 changes landlord-tenant law, what qualifies as fraudulent entry, and how landlords can handle lease violations under the new statute.
What is Florida HB 1293?
Florida HB 1293 (Chapter 2026-143) is a state law effective October 1, 2026, that makes using fake IDs, altered paystubs, counterfeit documents, or false identities on rental applications a 3rd-degree felony. It also amends s. 83.56, F.S. to allow landlords to terminate a lease with an un-curable 7-day notice to vacate if fraudulent entry occurs.
What Constitutes "Fraudulent Entry of a Residential Dwelling Unit"?
Under the newly created Section 817.537, Florida Statutes, a person commits fraudulent entry if they knowingly and willfully enter and take possession of a residential property by:
Lying on a Rental Application: Making materially false written statements about their identity.
Submitting Fake or Counterfeit Documents: Presenting forged driver’s licenses, fake state IDs, altered bank statements, or fraudulent paystubs to a landlord.
Identity Theft / Impersonation: Pretending to be another person when filling out an application, signing a lease, or taking possession of the dwelling.
Penalties for Fraudulent Rental Entry
Violating s. 817.537, F.S. is classified as a felony of the third degree. Convictions carry criminal penalties under s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084, F.S.
How HB 1293 Protects Landlords: Immediate 7-Day Lease Termination
Prior to this law, handling tenants who moved in using falsified documents often required lengthy standard eviction processes.
Under the amended s. 83.56(2)(a), F.S., fraudulent entry is classified as a non-curable act of noncompliance. This means:
No Right to Cure: Landlords do not have to give the tenant an opportunity to fix or explain the fraud.
Immediate 7-Day Notice: Landlords can issue an immediate 7-day notice terminating the rental agreement.
No Criminal Conviction Required: Landlords can terminate the lease for fraudulent entry "regardless of whether criminal proceedings have commenced."
Required Lease Termination Notice Wording
When serving notice for fraudulent entry, Florida landlords must deliver a written notice substantially stating:
"You are advised that your lease is terminated effective immediately. You shall have 7 days from the delivery of this letter to vacate the premises. This action is taken because [cite fraudulent entry under s. 817.537(2)]..."
Key Dates & Statutory Summary
| Detail | Information |
| Bill Number | House Bill 1293 / Chapter 2026-143 |
| New Statute Created | Section 817.537, Florida Statutes |
| Amended Statute | Section 83.56(2)(a), Florida Statutes |
| Effective Date | October 1, 2026 |
| Criminal Charge | 3rd-Degree Felony |
| Landlord Remedy | Un-curable 7-Day Termination Notice |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does Florida HB 1293 take effect?
The act takes effect on October 1, 2026.
Can a landlord evict a tenant for fake paystubs in Florida?
Yes. Presenting fake paystubs, forged bank statements, or fake IDs to secure a rental is a third-degree felony under s. 817.537, F.S. Landlords can issue an immediate 7-day notice to terminate the tenancy without giving the tenant a chance to cure.
Does a tenant have to be criminally charged before a landlord can terminate the lease?
No. Section 83.56(2)(a), F.S. explicitly allows landlords to terminate the lease for fraudulent entry regardless of whether formal criminal proceedings have begun.
Direct Text Link to the Official Statute
For full legal wording and statutory specifics, you can read the complete enrolled text of Florida Chapter 2026-143 (HB 1293).
Protect Your Florida Rental Investment: Explore More Resources
Navigating Florida’s evolving landlord-tenant laws doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you are updating your rental application screening workflow for HB 1293 (s. 817.537, F.S.), handling non-paying tenants, or drafting ironclad lease agreements, staying informed is your best defense against costly legal mistakes.
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