My Rights During an Eviction

[Doug Block]

I'm currently in the middle of an eviction process (case # has been filed and currently going through the 5 day summons period). I live out of state of the rental property and will be visiting it next week. I have send the tenants the notification as required by law for me to visit the condo. I'd like to inspect it with my property manager so we can get started timely with what needs to be done with the property to turn it over as quickly as possible once the eviction is finalized.

My concern is that the tenant will not willingly open the door and let me visit the condo since they are being evicted and probably quite upset. Do I have the right to enlist the help of a locksmith and enter the condo if they are not home or do not answer (the management office lost my copy of the key, long story)? Was even considering a call to the Sherrif's office for an escort just in case.

It's bad timing, I know, but this is the only time I will be down there for the rest of the year and need to visit the property. If they do not answer, I just want to make sure it is OK for me to enter, per my rights and per Florida Law. I believe it is, just want to confirm. Thanks.