Georgia’s Landlord-Tenant Law is important if you are a student in Georgia and searching for rent. These laws outline the rules and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, ensuring everyone knows their rights and obligations.
From what a lease is to the steps involved in moving out, this blog covers all the key points. Whether you’re curious about paying rent, security deposits, or what happens during an eviction, this blog will give you a clear overview of Georgia landlord-tenant law.
Table of contents
What is a Lease in Georgia Landlord-Tenant Law?
A lease is a written agreement between a landlord and a tenant. It spells out the terms of renting a property, such as the amount of rent, the length of the rental period, and the rules tenants must follow. Both parties sign the lease to show they agree to its terms. This tenancy agreement protects both the landlord and the tenant by clearly stating their responsibilities and rights in Georgia.
Also Read: Planning to study abroad? Well, check out our blog on the best places to study abroad in the US to avail world-class education.
Tenants and Landlord’s Responsibilities and Rights
In Georgia, landlords and tenants have specific rules they must follow to ensure everything goes smoothly when renting a property. According to Georgia landlord-tenant law (Title 44, Chapter 7), landlords must follow certain guidelines to keep their property in good condition and treat their tenants fairly.
Landlords need to provide a safe and livable home for their tenants. This means the property should be in good shape, with no major issues that could make it unsafe to live in. If something needs a big repair, tenants can send a written request to the landlord. The landlord must respond and fix the issue within a reasonable time. If the landlord doesn’t, the tenant can pay for the repair and then subtract the cost from their next rent payment.
Landlords are also responsible for collecting rent and security deposits and making sure the lease terms are followed. Tenants, on the other hand, have the right to live in a well-maintained home and be treated fairly by their landlords. Tenants must also keep the property clean, make small repairs when needed, not disturb their neighbours, pay rent on time, and follow the other rules in the lease agreement.
Paying Rent
Rent is the amount of money a tenant pays to the landlord for living in their property. In Georgia, according to the Georgia landlord-tenant law, the lease agreement specifies the rent amount and due date. If tenants don’t pay rent on time, landlords may charge late fees or start eviction proceedings. Tenants need to pay rent as agreed to avoid any legal issues. If a tenant is unable to pay, they should communicate with their landlord as soon as possible to try and work out a solution.
Security Deposits
According to the Georgia landlord-tenant law, landlords often ask for a security deposit when renting out their property, even though the Georgia landlord-tenant law doesn’t strictly need it. This deposit protects the landlord in case there’s damage to the property or other issues. The landlord can either put the security deposit in a special bank account (escrow account), or they can use a surety bond, which is like an insurance policy, with the local court.
When a tenant moves out, the landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days. If the property needs repairs or if there are unpaid fees, the landlord can deduct those costs from the deposit. If the landlord doesn’t return the deposit on time, they might have to pay the tenant up to three times the amount of the deposit.
Also Read: If you are looking for accommodation in Los Angeles, Check Out our blog on Cheapest Student Accommodations in Los Angeles
Evictions and Moving Out
In Georgia, tenants must give their landlord a 30-day notice if they plan to shift. If the landlord wants the tenant to move out, they must give a 60-day written notice of that place.
Landlords can evict tenants if they don’t pay rent, stay after the lease ends, break the lease rules, or damage the property on purpose. To start an eviction, the landlord needs to file a “demand for possession,” which means asking the tenant to leave. If the tenant doesn’t move out within the given time, the landlord can take the case to court. But, if the tenant leaves before the court date, they can avoid legal trouble.
FAQs on the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Law
A lease is a written agreement between a landlord and a tenant that outlines the terms of renting a property, including the rent amount, the rental period, and the rules tenants must follow.
Tenants in Georgia have the right to live in a safe, clean, and habitable home. Landlords must address significant issues like broken windows or faulty wiring that could affect health and safety. Tenants also have a right to privacy, meaning landlords must give notice before entering the property, except in emergencies.
Landlords in Georgia are responsible for maintaining their rental properties in good condition, making necessary repairs, ensuring essential services like heating and plumbing are functional, and keeping common areas clean.
In Georgia, a security deposit is paid by the tenant at the start of the lease and held by the landlord to cover potential damages or unpaid rent. Landlords must keep this deposit in a separate escrow account or post a bond. After the tenant moves out, the landlord has 30 days to return the deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions for any damages or unpaid rent.
Eviction in Georgia is a legal process where a landlord removes a tenant from the property for reasons such as non-payment of rent, violating lease terms, or causing significant damage. Landlords must first give the tenant a notice to vacate. If the tenant does not resolve the issue or move out, the landlord can file an eviction lawsuit.
Hope you liked reading about the Georgia Landlord Tenant Law. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal student accommodation abroad with ease.
Follow Us on Social Media
