GA · Tenant rights
Tenant Rights in Georgia
A plain-English overview of residential renter protections under Georgia Landlord-Tenant Law (O.C.G.A. § 44-7). Use this as a checklist before you sign — then verify anything that looks off in your specific lease.
Key rules at a glance
- Security deposit return: 30 days after termination
- Landlord entry notice: Reasonable notice; many leases require 24 hours
- Late fees: Late fees must be disclosed; Georgia does not set one statewide percentage for all leases.
What to check in a Georgia lease
- 30-day deposit return
- Dispossessory / eviction notice timing
- Pet fees vs non-refundable pet deposits
- Repair and habitability language
Frequently asked questions
When must a Georgia landlord return a security deposit?
Georgia law generally requires landlords to return the deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days after the tenancy ends.
Before you sign
Statutes set the floor — your lease can still include junk fees, auto-renewals, one-sided indemnification, or deposit language that conflicts with Georgia law. Comparing the document to O.C.G.A. § 44-7 is the fastest way to spot problems early.
LeaseGuard.ai provides educational information only and is not a law firm. This page is not legal advice. For disputes or case-specific interpretation, contact a licensed Georgia attorney or your local legal aid office.
Also see our lease guides for clause-by-clause renter tips.