How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Georgia?

In Georgia, a landlord must return the deposit, with an itemized statement for any deductions, within 30 days of move-out.

What is the small claims limit for a deposit dispute in Georgia?

Small claims court in Georgia handles disputes up to $15,000 (magistrate court).

← All states

Georgia security deposit law

Return deadline

30 days

Small claims limit

$15,000 (magistrate court)

What you need to know

• Deposit due back within 30 days with an itemized list of any damage claims.
• Larger landlords must give you a move-in inspection list — sign it only after checking it against your own photos.
• Bad-faith withholding costs the landlord triple damages plus attorney’s fees.

Itemization: Itemized list of damages within 30 days. Landlords with 10+ units (or using agents) must do move-in/move-out inspection lists.

Interest: No interest required.

Deposit cap: Capped at 2 months’ rent (2024 law).

If they wrongfully withhold: Bad faith: 3x the amount wrongfully withheld + attorney’s fees.

Statute: O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-30 to 44-7-37

What’s at stake for you?

Deadlines and penalties are state law — check yours, then lock in the evidence.

Your state

Your security deposit ($)

💰 At stake: your $1,500 deposit.

⏱ Deadline: Georgia landlords must act within 30 days of move-out.

⚖️ Your leverage: wrongful withholding could cost your landlord up to $4,500 (Bad faith: 3x the amount wrongfully withheld + attorney’s fees.)

🏛 If it comes to it: small claims in Georgia handles up to $15,000 (magistrate court) — no lawyer needed.

None of this matters without evidence.

Document your place in 5 minutes — every photo timestamped and hash-verified.

Protect my $1,500 deposit — free

Estimates for information only, not legal advice. Actual outcomes depend on facts, local law, and courts.

Document my apartment — free

Timestamped, hash-verified photos in under 5 minutes. No credit card.

This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and details vary by city and situation — verify current law or consult a local attorney or tenant’s rights organization before acting.