Summary (Ga. Code § 44-7-1): The following are the laws in Georgia on the landlord-tenant relationship, addressing areas such as:

• Maintenance of the Property – Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities to maintain a safe and habitable property, following the local housing codes.
• Security Deposits – The landlord must return all security deposits within one month of the tenant vacating the property.

Summary (Ga. Code § 44-7-30): In Georgia, landlords can charge a security deposit but must return it (minus deductions for damages) within one (1) month after the tenant moves out.

• 30 Days – Timeframe for landlords to return the deposit.
• Deductions must be itemized in a written list and provided to the tenant as proof.
• Normal wear and tear cannot be deducted from the security deposit.
• Tenants can sue for up to double the deposit if the landlord fails to return it in time.

Summary (Ga. Code § 44-7-52): Both landlords and tenants can terminate a lease under certain conditions, with landlords having particular rights (the upper hand):

• Landlord’s Ability to Terminate
  • 3-day notice for failure to pay rent.
  • 7-day notice to fix a lease violation.
• Tenant’s Ability to Terminate
  • With proof of domestic violence (police report), tenants can terminate their lease early.
  • Provide 30 days’ notice to terminate a month-to-month lease.

Summary (Ga. Code § 44-7-4): Landlords must provide reasonable notice (usually 24 hours) before entering a rental property unless it’s an emergency. Tenants cannot unreasonably deny access to landlords.

Summary (Ga. Code § 44-7-14): Georgia law does not mandate rent due dates; that is subject to landlord-tenant agreements. If no grace period is stated in the agreement, landlords may charge late fees after rent is late.

Summary (Ga. Code § 44-7-50): After proper notice is given and the tenant fails to comply, landlords must file a dispossessory action in court to proceed with the eviction.

Summary (Ga. Code § 44-7-1): Landlords are required to keep rental properties in a habitable condition and make necessary repairs after receiving written notice from tenants.

• Tenants can terminate the lease or seek damages if repairs are not made within a reasonable time after notice.

Tenants who undertake repairs themselves are not legally entitled to deduct the cost from their rent payment.