Renting After an Eviction in Florida: Resources, Support & What You Should Know

Let’s be honest — navigating the rental market is already hard enough. Add an eviction on your record, and it can feel like the doors are closing before you even knock.

But here’s the truth: you are not alone, and eviction doesn’t have to be the end of the road. Whether you're trying to get back on your feet, make a fresh start, or help a friend or family member do the same — I put together this post to help you find support, ask the right questions, and explore your options.

Why This Matters

As a local Realtor here in Central Florida, I meet people in all stages of life. Some are buying their first home. Some are bouncing back from financial setbacks. Some are just trying to keep their family housed.

No matter what season you're in, everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and given access to the information they need to move forward.

Local Resources in Orlando & Central Florida

Here are some trusted programs that provide rental assistance, legal support, or second-chance housing opportunities for residents in Orange County and the surrounding areas:

1. EPIC Program – Orange County

Helps households facing eviction with rental assistance and case management.
👉 ocfl.net/EPIC

2. Orange County Crisis Assistance Program

Offers one-time emergency financial help for rent, utilities, and other housing needs.
👉 ocfl.net/CrisisAssistance

3. Christian Service Center – Orlando

A nonprofit that assists local families with rent, utilities, and food during times of crisis.
👉 christianservicecenter.org

4. Catholic Charities Family Stability Program

Serving Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties, this program offers short-term rental help and financial coaching.
👉 cflcc.org

5. Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association

Offers legal representation and support in landlord-tenant disputes.
📞 (407) 841-8310

6. Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida

Free legal help for tenants facing eviction, discrimination, or unsafe housing conditions.
👉 hfuw.org/housingresources

7. Orange County Rental Assistance / Housing Programs

Includes Section 8 vouchers, TBRA, and more.
👉 orangecountyfl.net/RentalAssistance

Statewide Support Across Florida

These programs and tools can help no matter where in Florida you live:

1. Florida Law Help

Offers legal guides, self-help forms, and tenant rights info.
👉 floridalawhelp.org

2. FACE Program (Florida Attorneys Counseling on Evictions)

Matches eligible tenants with free volunteer attorneys to help with eviction cases.
👉 fundingfla.org/evictions

3. HUD Eviction Protection Grant

Supports local legal aid offices and housing counselors across Florida.
👉 huduser.gov

4. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

Know your rights, dispute inaccurate eviction reports, and find nationwide help.
👉 consumerfinance.gov

Not Sure Where to Start?

Call 2-1-1 (United Way’s referral hotline) or text your ZIP code to 898211 to get connected with nearby housing and financial assistance programs.

A Note of Encouragement

If you’re applying for rentals with an eviction on your record, here are a few tips that can make a difference:

• Be honest, but prepared. Bring a letter of explanation if needed.

• Show proof of stability. Consistent income, a co-signer, or good rental references can help ease concerns.

• Seek out second-chance landlords. Some rental companies and private owners are open to working with people rebuilding their rental history — especially when you show initiative and transparency.

If this post helps even one person stay housed or feel more hopeful, it’s done its job. If you’ve used any of these programs — or know of others worth sharing — feel free to reach out or leave a comment. Let’s keep looking out for each other.

📌 Disclaimer

This blog post is for informational purposes only. I am not an attorney or financial advisor, and this does not constitute legal advice. Please verify all information with the appropriate agencies or legal counsel. Program eligibility and availability can change at any time. Always do your own research and due diligence before applying for assistance or signing any rental agreements.