Key Georgia laws that property managers should be aware of

Georgia's property management laws equip landlords and property managers with the necessary knowledge to provide safe housing. However, these laws can be complex, especially when dealing with properties in multiple states. This information is essential for anyone managing property in Georgia to understand their obligations. It references the Official Code of Georgia's statutes as of the 2019 Regular Session.

• Landlords can charge non-refundable application fees and request information about potential tenants' employment, credit, and criminal records (44-7-1).
• It is unlawful to reject a tenant based on race, religion, color, sex, disability, family status, or national origin (8-3-203).
• Security deposits have no state-level limit and must be held in an escrow account (if the property is professionally managed) or a surety bond posted in the same county (44-7-30).
• Landlords have 30 days to return the security deposit after a tenant's departure and must provide a list of damages within three business days (44-7-30).
• Lease termination provisions must be agreed upon by both tenant and landlord. Service members and victims of domestic violence can terminate leases with 30 days’ written notice under specific conditions (44-7-22, 44-7-23).
• Landlords can increase rent per a valid lease agreement or with a 60-day notice for tenants-at-will. Late fees should be clarified in the lease agreement (44-7-19).
• Landlords must provide written notice of the names and addresses of the property owner, authorized agent and property manager upon commencement of occupancy (44-7-3).
• Landlords are required to maintain a safe, habitable property, provide utilities, and are liable for damages due to neglect (44-7-14).
• Landlords and property managers are obligated to keep rental properties in good condition, respond to maintenance requests in a reasonable time frame, and cannot suspend utilities while the property is occupied (44-7-13, 44-7-14.1).

 
For more information on Georgia laws for Tenants, Landlords & Property Managers:
Georgia Landlord Tenant Handbook