Legal Update from the Law Offices of Heist, Weisse & Wolk, PLLC - New Law Starts Tomorrow October 1 2026

Florida PMServices • September 30, 2026

Legal Update from the Law Offices of Heist, Weisse & Wolk, PLLC Phone: 1-800-253-842

One of the most prestigious Law Forms specializing in Landlord-tenant Law, the Law Offices of Heist, Weisse & Wolk, PLLC Phone: 1-800-253-842, has sent us a legal update regarding a new law in Florida that takes effect tomorrow. The law firm of Law Offices of Heist, Weisse & Wolk, PLLC is one of thye firms we engage for several Landlord-Tenant issues.

A critical new Florida law empowering landlords and property managers against fraudulent rental applications, fake pay stubs, and stolen identities. These are the highlights of the new law:

Third-Degree Felony Criminal Penalties

Under newly enacted §817.537, Florida Statutes, knowingly using false identity information, forged bank statements, fictitious pay stubs, or counterfeit IDs to fraudulently obtain possession of a residential rental home is now a Third-Degree Felony, punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and substantial fines.

Immediate Non-Curable Lease Termination

Under amended §83.56, Florida Statutes, fraudulent entry in violation of §817.537 constitutes statutory grounds for immediate termination of the rental agreement without an opportunity to cure. Landlords are not required to give the tenant a chance to rectify fraudulent onboarding.

Broad Scope of Covered Documents

The statute strictly covers all application materials, including but not limited to: driver licenses, government ID cards, bank account statements, pay stubs, employment verifications, and credit reports. Submitting altered or impersonated records triggers immediate statutory liability.

More information can be obtained by searching for the complete Florida Statute.

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September Newsletter - Cost Segregation

By Florida PMServices • September 11, 2026

What is it? A cost segregation study looks at the different parts of a rental property to see which ones can be depreciated faster. This can allow investors to take some deductions sooner instead of spreading them out over the standard 27.5 years. Who uses it? It’s mainly used by real estate investors and property owners who want to claim larger depreciation deductions sooner on their rental properties. A qualified tax professional or cost segregation specialist typically performs the study. Where does it apply? Cost segregation can be used on residential rental properties, including single-family rentals, although whether it makes financial sense depends on the property and the investor's tax situation. The IRS specifically provides guidance for cost segregation studies involving residential rental property. When should investors consider it? It is often considered when purchasing, constructing, or making significant improvements to a rental property. Investors can also look at existing properties, but the potential benefit depends on the property's cost, improvements, and tax circumstances. Why does it matter? The goal is to potentially move some depreciation deductions into earlier years, which can reduce taxable income sooner and potentially improve near-term cash flow. It doesn't create new value in the property, it changes when certain costs may be deducted for tax purposes. Investor Takeaway: A cost segregation study can be worth exploring for investors with higher-value rental properties or significant improvements, but the potential tax benefit varies from property to property. It is recommended to always work with a qualified tax professional to determine whether a study makes sense for your situation.

Opportunity Zones

By Florida PMServices • August 21, 2026

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