Florida Landlord Requiring Tenants And Employees To Be Vaccinated

Last month, a Florida landlord announced that if you wish to rent from him, you will need to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Santiago Alvarez, who owns 1,200 units, says that the new requirement will apply to his tenants and employees. The Washington Post reports that any tenants who wish to renew their lease and any prospective tenants must show proof of vaccinations. Unvaccinated employees face termination, according to Alvarez. He will only make exceptions for health and religious reasons. 

Alvarez, 80, said his decision stems from the fact that he’s lost 12 of his tenants to coronavirus. He believes he has an “obligation” and “duty” to protect the residents of his apartment units and his employees. 

“It very much upsets me that my employees are exposed to [covid-19] all days of the week because there is someone who does not want to get vaccinated,” Alvarez told The Post.

One tenant had already complained to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services but decided to move out when her lease ended. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis banned state agencies and local businesses from requiring proof of vaccination. Press Secretary Christina Pushaw told the outlet that Alvarez’s policy stands in violation of the state ban.

“Florida law is very clear. A business owner (landlord) cannot require vaccine passports as a condition of entry. Each violation of the law will result in a $5000 fine,” she said. 

Fully vaccinated people can transmit the virus, she added.

According to Pushaw, the Florida Department of Health will enforce the ban once it takes effect on September 16.