If my landlord is in foreclosure, can I stop paying rent?

Your landlord owns the property until title transfers to a new owner. This means that you still need to pay rent to your landlord. Many tenants in your situation stop paying rent but they have no legal grounds to do so.

Even if your landlord is in foreclosure, they still have the right to evict you for nonpayment. Your landlord might depend on the rental income to work out a solution with the lender.

You should begin by asking your landlord what to expect. The landlord may be able to save the home from foreclosure.

Try to discuss the possibility of getting your security deposit back early. You can try to negotiate an early move out or reduced rent. If your landlord wants to sell the property to avoid foreclosure, they may be willing to pay you to move out. Discuss moving costs with your landlord.

It may be in your best interest to remain on the property and pay rent. The Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act (PTFA) may offer you protection after the sale and transfer of the property.

Are you a Hillsborough County renter having housing problems? Help is available!

The Hillsborough County Housing Stability Program provides Hillsborough tenants the knowledge, resources, and services to effectively, efficiently, and amicably solve their disputes with their landlords outside the court system.

Man on porch

The Legal Information Center is a free program to provide information to people who are representing themselves in Family Law cases in Hillsborough County. Get the information you need to make an informed decision about your case.

Legal Information Center

Apply for Services

Apply by phone Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., or apply online anytime for non-emergency legal matters. Language interpreters are available to you at no cost.

How do I apply? Am I eligible?

Bay Area Legal Services

If you live or have a case in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Manatee, or Sarasota counties, we may be able to help.

Statewide Legal Helplines

If you live or have a case in Florida, we may be able to help.