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Georgia Security Deposit Limits
Maximum deposit: No statutory limit. Landlords can charge any amount.
Statute: Ga. Code §§ 44-7-30 to 44-7-37
Full text: Read the law
Return Deadline & Requirements
Landlord must return the deposit within 30 days after the tenant vacates.
Itemized Statement Required: Landlord must provide an itemized list of damages and the estimated or actual cost of repairs within 3 days of inspecting the property.
Move-Out Inspection
Landlord must inspect within 3 business days of vacancy and provide a list of damages.
Allowed & Prohibited Deductions
What Landlords CAN Deduct
- Unpaid rent
- Damages beyond normal wear and tear
- Other charges authorized by the lease
What Landlords CANNOT Deduct
- Normal wear and tear
- Pre-existing damage
Penalties for Violations
Landlord Penalties: If landlord fails to comply, tenant can recover 3x the wrongfully retained amount plus attorney's fees.
Where to file: Magistrate Court (up to $15,000)
Interest Requirements
Georgia does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How to Get Your Georgia Security Deposit Back
If your landlord is withholding your deposit wrongfully, here's what to do:
- Document everything at move-out — Take photos and video of the unit's condition. Do a walkthrough if your state allows it.
- Provide your forwarding address in writing — Many states don't start the return clock until you provide this.
- Wait for the deadline to pass — Give your landlord the full 30 days required by law.
- Send a demand letter — If the deadline passes without your deposit, send a formal demand letter citing Ga. Code §§ 44-7-30 to 44-7-37.
- File in court — If the demand letter doesn't work, file in Magistrate Court (up to $15,000). You may recover additional penalties.
Get Your Security Deposit Back
Create a free demand letter for your Georgia security deposit dispute. Cites GA law automatically.
Create Free Demand LetterFrequently Asked Questions
How long does a Georgia landlord have to return a security deposit?
30 days after the tenant vacates the property.
What penalty does a Georgia landlord face for wrongfully keeping a deposit?
The tenant can recover 3x the amount wrongfully retained plus reasonable attorney's fees. This is one of the strongest penalty provisions in the country.
Does a Georgia landlord have to inspect the property?
Yes. The landlord must inspect within 3 business days of the tenant vacating and provide an itemized list of any damages.
Is there a security deposit limit in Georgia?
No. Georgia has no statutory limit on security deposit amounts.
More Resources: All State Guides | Security Deposit Demand Letter Guide | Demand Letter Templates