Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Georgia Landlord-Tenant Laws
Georgia is a landlord-friendly state with minimal regulation. There is no security deposit cap, no required entry notice, and no rent control. However, landlords must strictly follow the eviction process — self-help evictions (changing locks, removing belongings) are illegal.
Key Rules at a Glance
Security Deposit Limit
No statutory limit
Georgia does not cap security deposits. Market practice is typically 1–2 months' rent.
Deposit Return Deadline
30 days
Return deposit with itemized written statement within 30 days of termination. Landlord must provide written list of claimed damages.
Notice to Enter
No statute
Georgia has no statutory notice requirement for landlord entry. Giving 24 hours notice is best practice.
Rent Increase Notice
60 days (month-to-month)
No statewide requirement, but one full rental period notice is standard. 60 days is best practice for monthly tenants.
Late Fee
Must be in lease; typically 5%
No statutory cap, but the fee must be stated in the lease and must be reasonable.
Nonpayment Eviction Notice
Demand for possession (no minimum days)
Georgia uniquely does not require a minimum notice period — a demand for possession can precede immediate filing. Practically, a written demand is always served first.
Lease Termination (Month-to-Month)
60 days written notice
Either party may terminate with 60 days written notice before the end of a monthly term.
Disclaimer:Georgia law does not require self-help remedies notice, but any landlord who locks out a tenant, removes doors, or cuts utilities without a court order can face criminal and civil liability.
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Open →Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Georgia landlord have to return a security deposit?
30 days from the date the tenant vacates. You must provide a written itemized list of any deductions. If you fail to return the deposit within 30 days, you forfeit your right to keep any portion of it.
Does Georgia require notice before entering a rental property?
No — Georgia has no statute requiring advance notice before landlord entry. However, entering without notice can be construed as a breach of the covenant of quiet enjoyment. 24 hours notice is always recommended.
How do I evict a tenant in Georgia for non-payment of rent?
Serve a written demand for possession. Then file a dispossessory affidavit in magistrate court. The tenant is served and has 7 days to answer. A hearing is typically held within 10–14 days of filing.
Is there rent control in Georgia?
No. Georgia does not have rent control, and state law generally does not allow cities to enact it. Landlords may raise rent to market rate with proper notice.
Can I evict a tenant in Georgia without going to court?
No. Self-help eviction — changing locks, removing belongings, cutting utilities — is illegal in Georgia and can result in criminal charges and civil liability for the landlord. Always use the court dispossessory process.