Per Florida Statute 509.242(c) a “vacation rental” is defined as “any unit or group of units in a condominium or cooperative or any individually or collectively owned single-family, two-family, three-family, or four-family house or dwelling unit that is also a transient public lodging establishment but that is not a timeshare project.”
Recommended Minimum Standard Furnishings
Basic Criteria
Statutory Requirements
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The maximum occupancy load permitted for one and two family dwellings licensed as public lodging establishments shall be computed at 150 square feet gross floor area per person. (Florida Administrative Code 69A – 43.018 (5))
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Toxic items, (pesticides, paint, etc.), must be properly stored and labeled. (Florida Administrative Code 61-C-1.004 (4))
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Battery powered emergency lighting to automatically illuminate the primary exit must be provided for at least one hour in the event of any interruption of normal lighting and tested annually. (2017 Florida Fire Prevention Code 14.13.2.; Florida Administrative Code 69A-43.018 (6))
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One 2A 10BC multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguisher must be provided on every level, conform to NFPA 10, be properly charged and readily accessible. (2017 Florida Fire Prevention Code 13.6.3; Florida Administrative Code 69A-43.018 (7); Florida Administrative Code 69A-3.012, Florida Building Code 906.5 and 906.6; NFPA 101 Chapter 29.3.4.5)
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An approved single or multiple station smoke alarm continuously powered by the house electrical system must be installed in every living area and bedroom. (Florida Statute 509.215 (1)(b); Florida Administrative Code 69A-43.018 (3))
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A floor diagram reflecting the actual floor arrangement primary exit location, secondary exit location, and room identification shall be posted in a conspicuous location. (Florida Administrative Code 69A-43.018 (8))
Required
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Breaker boxes must be accessible, and switches labeled.
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Hot water heaters must be accessible.
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All furniture should be free of obvious damage, nicks, and stains.
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All counter-top surfaces stain and blemish-free.
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Doormats must be provided at the main entry, both inside and outside with non-skid backing.
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Door stops must be installed on every interior and exterior door.
Recommended
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Remove “clutter” such as old magazines and board games/puzzles/playing cards with missing pieces that can detract from the overall guest experience.
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Artificial/silk plants, knick-knacks, personal and family photos, and memorabilia should be minimal and non-breakable.
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Label all electrical switches, TVs, DVD players and ceiling fan remote controls.
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Install dimmers on all switches and lamps.
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Provide a cell phone signal booster (network extender).
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Invest in a strong Wi-Fi router.
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Provide HD DVR boxes with premium channels on all TVs or provide smart TVs with access to streaming services.