Georgia Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Ga. Code §44-7-30 to §44-7-37 — Security Deposits
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 calendar days after tenant vacating the premises.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 calendar days, you may be entitled to treble the amount wrongfully withheld in bad faith under Ga. Code §44-7-35(c).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: no statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 3 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $15,000
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Landlord must inspect within 3 business days of vacancy and provide itemized list of damages
- Security deposit rules may not apply to landlords with fewer than 10 units unless managed by a third party
- Landlord must provide written list of pre-existing damage at move-in
What Your Georgia Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Georgia's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
Ga. Code §44-7-30 to §44-7-37 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
30 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
treble the amount wrongfully withheld in bad faith — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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Georgia Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Georgia?
Under Ga. Code §44-7-30 to §44-7-37, your landlord has 30 calendar days after tenant vacating the premises to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my Georgia landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the legal deadline, you may be entitled to treble the amount wrongfully withheld in bad faith under Ga. Code §44-7-35(c). You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Georgia?
Under Ga. Code §44-7-30 to §44-7-37, the maximum security deposit in Georgia is no statutory limit.
Does my Georgia landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. Georgia law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 3 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia small claims court handles cases up to $15,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to send a security deposit demand letter in Georgia?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Georgia-specific demand letter citing Ga. Code §44-7-30 to §44-7-37 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Security Deposit Demand Letters by State
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