Georgia Landlord-Tenant Laws
This overview summarizes common Georgia landlord-tenant topics using published statute references (Georgia Code 44-7). Laws change — confirm details with official sources.
Preview lease and notice templates free as PDF and editable Word (DOCX) — pay $19.99/year or $2.99/month only when you download. Cancel any time.
Security Deposit Laws
2 months' rent
30 days
Not confirmed by LeaseCraft
The rule: Max 2 months' rent for leases signed or renewed on or after July 1, 2024 (earlier leases had no statewide limit). Within 30 days after the landlord obtains possession (the lease has ended and the unit is vacated, or it is surrendered and accepted), the landlord must return the deposit or send a written statement of the exact reasons for any amount kept, with the balance; missing the deadline forfeits the right to withhold (O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-30.1, 44-7-33, 44-7-34).
Landlords should provide an itemized deduction list when withholding any portion of the deposit.
Reviewed · O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-30.1, 44-7-33, 44-7-34
Eviction Notice Requirements
Immediate demand
Immediate
Court filing and service rules vary by county. Use our eviction timeline calculator for planning.
Notice to Vacate
60 days notice
No notice required if lease ends
Late Rent Fees
No statutory requirement
No limit
Additional Regulations
No statewide rent control
No statutory requirement
When to use Georgia document templates
Use LeaseCraft templates when you need PDF and editable DOCX lease and notice forms built for Georgia landlords and tenants. Start with the residential lease generator, then add notices from the sidebar.
Common mistakes in Georgia
- Relying on verbal agreements instead of a written lease with required disclosures
- Missing the security deposit return deadline (30 days)
- Serving eviction or termination notices with incorrect day counts
Frequently asked questions
In Georgia the security deposit limit is 2 months' rent. The return deadline is 30 days. Max 2 months' rent for leases signed or renewed on or after July 1, 2024 (earlier leases had no statewide limit). Within 30 days after the landlord obtains possession (the lease has ended and the unit is vacated, or it is surrendered and accepted), the landlord must return the deposit or send a written statement of the exact reasons for any amount kept, with the balance; missing the deadline forfeits the right to withhold (O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-30.1, 44-7-33, 44-7-34).
Confirm current rules in Georgia Code 44-7.
Disclaimer: Educational summary only, not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in your state for specific guidance. LeaseCraft is not a law firm. Statutes change — verify requirements with official Georgia sources before relying on this information. Last reviewed: 2026-06-18.