Georgia Lease Renewal Laws: What Renters Need to Know

Understanding how automatic lease renewals work in Georgia is crucial for renters making plans for their home. Whether you're considering moving, negotiating your rent, or staying in place, knowing your rights and responsibilities under Georgia law can help you avoid surprises and preserve your options. This guide breaks down essential rules, notice periods, and helpful steps so you can make informed decisions when your lease is up for renewal.

What Is Automatic Lease Renewal?

Automatic lease renewal—sometimes called an "evergreen clause"—is when a lease renews for another term automatically unless the renter or landlord gives proper notice to end or change it. This is most common in fixed-term leases (like one year) or month-to-month agreements. Georgia law does not specifically ban or require automatic renewal clauses, but it does set notice rules for ending a lease, which may impact renewals.

Georgia Lease Renewal and Termination Laws

Georgia's landlord-tenant law offers renters and landlords flexibility, but also has specific rules about ending a lease. The key statute to know is Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) § 44-7-7, which explains notice requirements for renewing or terminating tenancies.¹

• Fixed-term lease: Usually ends on the date listed in the lease. If neither party gives notice or signs a new lease, the tenancy may continue month-to-month under the same terms.
• Month-to-month tenancy: Either the landlord or renter can end the lease by giving at least 30 days’ written notice before the next rent due date.
• Automatic renewal: If your lease has an automatic renewal clause, it will describe how much notice you must give to prevent your lease from automatically renewing for another term.

Required Notice Periods for Renters

Georgia requires clear communication for lease termination:

• Ending a fixed-term lease with automatic renewal: You must follow the notice instructions provided in your lease. Most leases require 30 or 60 days’ notice; check your lease for exact terms.
• Ending a month-to-month lease: You must provide at least 30 days’ written notice (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-7).

What Happens If No One Gives Notice?

If neither the renter nor the landlord gives the required notice to end a fixed-term lease, the lease does not automatically end on its own. In most cases, it becomes a month-to-month tenancy under Georgia law, with all other terms remaining the same.

Common Scenarios and How to Respond

• You want to move out: Check your lease for any automatic renewal clauses. Provide written notice as required (often 30 or 60 days).
• You want to stay, but renegotiate terms: Notify your landlord before the renewal deadline and request new terms (such as rent or repairs).
• You missed the deadline: Speak to your landlord right away. They may allow you to terminate or renegotiate instead of strictly enforcing the renewal, but this is at their discretion.

Relevant Official Forms for Georgia Renters

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (no official GA form or number): While Georgia law does not require a particular form, written notice is still necessary.
  Practical example: If your lease is month-to-month and you want to move, write a letter or email to your landlord stating your intention to end your lease in 30 days. For sample language, see this guide from Georgia Legal Aid.
• Renewal or Lease Extension Form (varies): If your landlord offers a renewal, they may send a lease extension agreement. Review it carefully before signing.

Georgia does not have a statewide, fillable termination or renewal form; landlords and tenants can create their own, as long as the written notice is clear and complies with the lease terms and state law.

Which Government Body Handles Tenancy Disputes in Georgia?

Georgia does not have a specialized landlord-tenant tribunal or board. Disputes over lease renewals, notice, and eviction are handled in your local county Magistrate Court.²

1. What if my lease has an automatic renewal, and I forget to give notice?
   If you miss your notice deadline, your lease may renew automatically for the same term and conditions (if stated in your lease). Contact your landlord as soon as possible—sometimes you can negotiate an alternative, but the landlord is not required to allow early termination if the lease has renewed.
2. Do I need to send my notice by certified mail or email?
   Georgia law only requires written notice, but your lease may specify a delivery method. Certified mail, email (with a delivery/read receipt), or hand delivery (with proof) are all ways to show you gave notice on time.
3. Is there rent control or a limit on rent increases during renewal?
   No, Georgia does not have rent control laws. Your landlord can propose a rent increase at lease renewal, but they must follow your lease’s notice requirements and you are not required to accept new terms for automatic renewal.
4. Can my landlord end my lease at renewal for any reason?
   Yes, in most cases—Georgia is an "at-will" state. The landlord must provide notice as required by law and your lease, but generally may choose not to renew without giving a reason, as long as they do not discriminate or retaliate.
5. What if my landlord tries to change the lease after automatic renewal?
   If your lease renews automatically, it usually does so under the same terms and conditions unless your landlord gives you advance written notice of changes (like rent increase). You have the right to decline renewal or negotiate changes before the renewal date.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Landlord-Tenant Rights Overview – Official Georgia state page on tenant and landlord rights
• Georgia Magistrate Court Directory – Find your local court for rental disputes
• Georgia Legal Aid – Housing – Guides and legal help for renters
• Georgia Department of Community Affairs: Rental Assistance Programs

---

1. O.C.G.A. § 44-7-7 – Notice to terminate tenancy at will; effect of holding over
2. Georgia Magistrate Courts Directory

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations