The pandemic is having a major impact on business finances and the greater economy. With many businesses operating with reduced hours or closing indefinitely, many commercial real estate tenants are already feeling financial strain. As a result, many tenants may not pay their rent on time. Landlords need cash flow to pay employees and vendors and to keep operating and maintaining the property. At the same time, landlords must navigate local, state and federal restrictions on traditional enforcement mechanism available to address nonpayment of rent under their lease and Florida law.

At the time of this writing, there is no federal restriction on evictions. Florida’s governor issued an executive order suspending and tolling residential evictions for nonpayment until May 18. The executive order does not apply to commercial evictions.