Georgia Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Ga. Code §44-7-30 to 44-7-37 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other charges authorized under the lease. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration resulting from the normal use of the dwelling by the tenant.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to treble (triple) the amount wrongfully withheld for bad faith retention under Ga. Code §44-7-35.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: No statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $15,000
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Landlords with 10+ units must provide move-in/move-out inspection list
- Landlord must provide list of pre-existing damage at move-in
- Treble damages for bad faith withholding
What Your Georgia Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Georgia's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Ga. Code §44-7-30 to 44-7-37 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Georgia law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration resulting from the normal use of the dwelling by the tenant...
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Georgia Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Georgia?
Under Ga. Code §44-7-30 to 44-7-37, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Georgia landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Georgia, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other charges authorized under the lease. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Georgia?
In Georgia: Deterioration resulting from the normal use of the dwelling by the tenant. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Georgia landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to treble (triple) the amount wrongfully withheld for bad faith retention under Ga. Code §44-7-35. You can pursue this in small claims court.
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 dispute deposit deductions in Georgia?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Georgia-specific dispute letter citing Ga. Code §44-7-30 to 44-7-37 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.