Georgia Landlord Compliance Checklist (Landlord-Tenant Handbook)

Essential compliance checklist for Georgia landlords: security deposits, dispossessory process, habitability requirements, and landlord-friendly regulations.

11 min read
Updated Mar 12, 2026
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Georgia is landlord-friendly with fast evictions and no rent control. Key requirements: proper dispossessory filing and move-in inspection documentation.

Security Deposits

GA deposit rules

No statutory deposit limit

beginner
essential

Must be reasonable. Document property condition at move-in (required by law).

Legal Note: Move-in inspection required - failure weakens deposit claim

Return deposit within 30 days

beginner
essential

One month from termination of tenancy. Provide itemized statement if deductions.

Move-in inspection mandatory

beginner
essential

Written inspection with tenant signature required within 5 days of move-in

Pro Tip: No inspection = cannot claim deposit damages beyond normal wear

Dispossessory Process (Eviction)

Georgia eviction procedures

Demand for possession (no statutory period)

beginner
essential

Written demand required before filing. No specific waiting period if past due.

File dispossessory in magistrate court

intermediate
essential

Summons issued, trial typically 7-14 days. Writ of possession if win.

Pro Tip: Georgia very landlord-friendly - eviction typically 3-4 weeks total

Habitability & Disclosures

Property standards and required notices

Maintain habitability

beginner
essential

Safe structure, working utilities, hot water, smoke detectors

Lead paint disclosure (pre-1978)

beginner
essential

Federal requirement: EPA pamphlet and disclosure form

Pro Tips

  • Complete move-in inspection within 5 days - protects deposit claims
  • No rent control or just cause eviction - Georgia very landlord-friendly
  • Document demand notice - creates clean paper trail for court
  • Consider attorney for first eviction ($500-1,000 typical) to learn process
Legal Disclaimer: Georgia landlord-tenant law is landlord-friendly but proper procedures required. Consult attorney for disputes.

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