The bill amends Florida statutes to strengthen property owners' rights concerning the removal of unauthorized occupants from both residential and commercial properties. It requires property owners or their authorized agents to file a verified complaint with the sheriff, detailing the unauthorized occupants and the circumstances of their presence. New provisions allow sheriffs to use reasonable force to enter properties and remove unauthorized individuals, and they are entitled to a fee for their services. The bill also clarifies that property owners and sheriffs are not liable for any loss or damage to personal property during the removal process, as long as it is conducted legally.

Additionally, the bill introduces criminal penalties for unlawful detainment or trespassing on commercial properties, as well as for fraudulent sales or leases of real property. It includes technical amendments to ensure consistency with the new provisions and aims to streamline the process for property owners reclaiming their properties while providing legal protections against wrongful removal claims. Overall, the legislation seeks to balance property owners' rights with the necessity of lawful procedures in addressing unauthorized occupancy.

Statutes affected:
H 213 Filed: 806.13, 817.0311
H 213 c1: 82.036, 689.03, 806.13, 817.0311