Lakeland, FL asked in Real Estate Law and Landlord - Tenant for Florida

Q: Who's in the right when rent money comes up missing?

I usually send my rent money in partials. Half one week, the other half the next week. My land Lord says he never had received my second money order. I have called the sheriff's office and mad a case fur the missing/ stolen money order. I have the money order receipt. I keep all receipts for reasons just like this.

The landlord keeps adding on late fees and threatening to evict. I don't know what i should or can do

1 Lawyer Answer
Andy Wayne Williamson
Andy Wayne Williamson
Answered
  • MIramar Beach, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Ultimately, it is the tenants responsiblity to deliver the rent to the landlord. Although it will not be what you will like to hear I think that you will have to make up that missing rent payment and likely pay the fees. Unless you have some type of proof the landlord lost or is attempting to keep the check and not give you credit I think you are obligated to to pay the rent and keep seeking to get the money order back and prosecute the person who stole it if you can find them.

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