Georgia Security Deposit Laws
Georgia limits security deposits to two months' rent and requires landlords to return deposits within 30 days after the tenancy ends (or a shorter period if the lease specifies).
Key Rules
- Limit
- 2 months' rent
- Return Deadline
- 30 days (or shorter period if specified in the lease)
- Interest Required
- No
- Itemization Required
- Yes — written itemized statement of deductions required
- Penalty For Wrongful Withholding
- Landlord who fails to return deposit timely forfeits right to retain; tenant may recover deposit plus damages
Some citations below have not been confirmed against their official source. Confirm current requirements with local legal aid or an attorney.
Applicable Statutes
Security deposit return: landlord must return the deposit, with an itemized list of deductions, within one month (or such shorter period as specified in the lease) after the tenancy ends.
Not confirmed against its source · checked
Ga. Code Ann. § 44-7-31
Security deposit limit: deposits may not exceed the equivalent of two months' rent.
Not confirmed against its source · checked
Legal Aid Resources
Georgia Legal Aid
Statewide Georgia
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.