Many renters are still having trouble paying your rent, utilities, or other housing costs, and landlords are trying to stay afloat.
"Ever since I’ve opened up my practice, it was has been exploding with eviction issues," said Jonathon Daily, an attorney in Port St. Lucie. "People out there are going through the same issues. Some people out there really do care and want to help, but that being said the law is the law."
Nearly 1,200 open evictions are reported in Palm Beach County. Dozens more are reported in neighboring counties.
But as evictions resume, St. Lucie County's Clerk of Court Michelle Miller told CBS12 news that she has not seen the flood of new eviction cases that was anticipated.
"It is very nice to see that those numbers are actually lower than projected," said Miller. "It’s nice to know that we’re not taking families out at home during this very trying time."
The Florida Department of Children and Families is now administering the state’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program funded by the US Treasury. This federal-funded emergency program assists renters and property owners with rental assistance.
The federal ERA Program allows local programs to cover rent, utilities, and home energy costs.
This includes electricity, gas, fuel oil, water and sewer, and trash removal. If your landlord normally pays for utilities or home energy costs, these are counted as part of your rent.
Rental assistance may also cover:
- Reasonable late fees (if not included in your rental or utility debt)
- Internet service to your home
- Moving expenses and other rental-related fees (such as security deposits, application fees, or screening fees) for families who have to move
- Some programs may also provide housing counseling, case management, legal representation, and other housing stability services.
The CDC moratorium ended on August 26, 2021.