FL S0970

Creates the "Florida Property Preservation Act" (s. 702.11) authorizing financial institutions or lenders to file a motion requesting a certificate of abandonment and preservation of property during foreclosure proceedings.

Requires the sheriff or deputy sheriff to conduct a visual inspection of the property, post a notice (20-point font minimum) if it appears abandoned, and conduct a second inspection after 30 calendar days to confirm abandonment status.

Authorizes the sheriff to charge $100 per inspection, payable by the financial institution or lender filing the motion and collected by the court clerk upon filing.

Permits the financial institution or lender to secure the property, maintain utilities and insurance, remove debris, maintain grounds and pools, perform preservation acts as ordered by court, and pay property taxes once a certificate of abandonment is issued.

Makes the financial institution or lender immune from liability for damages incurred while preserving the property, with all preservation costs assessed as damages against the homeowner and included in the final foreclosure judgment subject to court determination of reasonableness.