Georgia Landlord Disclosure Requirements Before Move-In

Before moving into a rental property in Georgia, landlords must provide certain disclosures to renters. Knowing your rights around these required disclosures can help you enter a lease agreement with confidence and avoid misunderstandings down the road.

Key Landlord Disclosures in Georgia

Georgia law requires landlords to make specific disclosures to renters before the start of a tenancy. These disclosures are designed to ensure transparency between landlords and tenants about the condition of the property, any health hazards, and how key aspects of the lease are handled.

1. Move-In Inspection Statement

• What is required? Landlords must provide a comprehensive list of any preexisting damages or defective conditions in the rental unit. This is commonly called the "Move-In Inspection Statement."
• When and how is it used? You should receive this list before payment of a security deposit or right at move-in. It's important to review and, if necessary, add your notes about property condition before signing.
• Where to get the form? Georgia law does not mandate a specific form, but your landlord's version must clearly itemize damages. See an official guide from the Georgia Department of Law Consumer Protection Division for details.

2. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for Housing Built Before 1978)

• What is required? If the rental unit was built before 1978, federal law requires landlords to provide a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form and a government-approved pamphlet on lead hazards.
• When and how is it used? This must be given before you sign the lease. Always review and retain these documents for your records.
• Official form: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA)

3. Name and Address of Owner/Agent

• What is required? The landlord or the property manager must give you the name and address of the property owner or authorized manager. This information is useful for sending any legal notices or maintenance requests.
• When? This should be disclosed in writing, usually within the lease agreement itself.

4. Security Deposit Details

• What is required? If the landlord collects a security deposit, you must be told in writing where the deposit is being held (for example, the name and address of the bank).
• When? Before or at the time you give your deposit.
• Source guidance: See Georgia Consumer Protection Division's resource on security deposits.

Georgia's Rental Housing Laws and Oversight

The main legislation covering landlord-tenant relationships in Georgia is the Georgia Code Title 44, Chapter 7 - Landlord and Tenant. For official disputes, tenants can often seek help through local county magistrate courts. While Georgia does not have a centralized tribunal or state-wide housing board specifically for tenancies, guidance and complaints are handled by the Georgia Department of Law Consumer Protection Division.

What Happens If Disclosures Aren't Provided?

If a landlord fails to make these required disclosures, you may have defenses in court if disputes arise over your security deposit or property condition. However, Georgia law does not mandate financial penalties for many disclosure violations—timely documentation and communication are your best protection.

What Renters Should Do When Receiving Required Disclosures

• Carefully read all move-in inspection paperwork. Don’t be afraid to add your comments or photos before signing.
• If living in a property built pre-1978, confirm you’ve received the lead paint disclosure and pamphlet.
• Store a copy of your lease and all disclosures in a safe place throughout your tenancy.
• If you notice that required information is missing, ask your landlord for it in writing as soon as possible.

FAQs about Required Landlord Disclosures in Georgia

1. What happens if I don't receive a move-in inspection statement in Georgia?
   Georgia law requires a move-in inspection for tenants who pay a security deposit. If you don't receive it, request one in writing from your landlord. This protects your security deposit when you move out.
2. Is my landlord required to give me contact information?
   Yes. You must be provided with the name and address of the property owner or agent for communication regarding your lease or any property issues.
3. Are there specific forms for move-in inspections in Georgia?
   No. While Georgia law doesn't supply an official form, your landlord's list must clearly itemize property damages. The federal EPA form is required for lead-based paint disclosures in older buildings.
4. What disclosures must be given for older buildings?
   For homes built before 1978, federal law requires a lead paint disclosure form and a government brochure about lead poisoning risks.
5. Who oversees disputes about landlord disclosures in Georgia?
   Magistrate courts handle tenant-landlord disputes in Georgia. The Consumer Protection Division also provides information but does not resolve disputes directly.

Key Takeaways for Georgia Renters

• Georgia landlords must provide a move-in inspection statement, lead-based paint disclosure for older homes, and owner/agent contact details
• Security deposit holders must tell you where your deposit is kept
• Keep all disclosures and communications for your protection

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Department of Law Consumer Protection Division – Guidance and complaint tips
• Georgia Magistrate Courts Directory – Where rental disputes can be filed
• EPA Lead Disclosure for Rentals – Forms and pamphlets for older rental housing
• Contact a local legal aid office for free or reduced-cost legal assistance in tenant-landlord matters

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1. Georgia Department of Law Consumer Protection Division: Landlord-Tenant Issues
2. Georgia Code Title 44, Chapter 7 - Landlord and Tenant
3. EPA Lead Disclosure for Rentals

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