Georgia
Security deposit laws in Georgia
The Georgia-specific deadline, what you can deduct, and how to write a compliant itemized statement — with statutory citations.
Return deadline
30 days
Generally within one (1) month (≈30 days) after the tenancy terminates or the tenant surrenders the unit, whichever occurs later.
Source: O.C.G.A. Sections 44-7-33 to 44-7-35
What landlords can deduct
- Itemized statement must list each deduction with a description and amount.
- Refund the balance within 1 month of tenancy termination or surrender.
- Do not deduct for normal wear and tear.
- Georgia has a strong bad-faith penalty (often treble damages) — review each deduction honestly.
Receipts & documentation
- Provide a written itemized list of all deductions within the 1-month window.
- Georgia does not require copies of receipts to be attached, but documented invoices are recommended.
- Retain all original invoices and photo evidence.
Gray areas to review carefully
Treble-damages penalty for bad-faith retention
A Georgia landlord who willfully and in bad faith fails to return the deposit may be liable for three times the improperly withheld amount plus attorney fees. Review honestly.
Normal wear and tear vs. damage
Only damage beyond normal wear and tear is deductible.
Depreciation / useful life
Prorate replacement cost for older items (carpet, paint, appliances) by remaining useful life.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Georgia?
Generally 30 days. Generally within one (1) month (≈30 days) after the tenancy terminates or the tenant surrenders the unit, whichever occurs later. Source: O.C.G.A. Sections 44-7-33 to 44-7-35. This is a general rule — verify your specific situation and any local ordinances.
Is an itemized statement required in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia requires a written itemized list of deductions. Itemized statement must list each deduction with a description and amount.
Can a landlord deduct for "normal wear and tear" in Georgia?
No. Every US state (including Georgia) excludes normal wear and tear from deductibility. Only damage beyond ordinary wear — such as stains, burns, large holes, or breakage — is typically deductible. Compare move-in and move-out photos for each item.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Georgia?
Missing the deadline can forfeit the right to withhold any portion of the deposit. Georgia's statute (O.C.G.A. Sections 44-7-33 to 44-7-35) is generally strictly applied.
Does MoveOutGuard support Georgia?
Yes — MoveOutGuard generates a Georgia-specific deduction letter using the deadline (30 days) and citation (O.C.G.A. Sections 44-7-33 to 44-7-35) above. Upload your receipts and move-out photos and the AI drafts an itemized letter for human review.
Draft your Georgia letter in minutes
Upload receipts and photos. Get a Georgia-specific itemized deduction letter for human review.
MoveOutGuard is a document preparation and evidence organization tool. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Drafts, checklists, and deadline estimates require your review and are not a guarantee of compliance or outcomes. For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney.