Georgia Move-In Inspection Checklist for Renters

Before you sign a lease and move into your new rental in Georgia, it's essential to walk through the property and carefully inspect its condition. Doing so protects your rights, helps secure your security deposit, and ensures you understand your responsibilities. Georgia has specific laws about move-in inspections and disclosures, overseen by the Georgia courts and outlined in the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act.^[1]

Why Move-In Inspections Matter in Georgia

Conducting a move-in inspection lets you document the rental’s condition before taking possession. This protects you from being held responsible for pre-existing damage when you move out. In Georgia, landlords are legally required to provide a move-in inspection list before accepting a security deposit.^[2]

What to Inspect Before Signing a Lease

Before signing, do a thorough walkthrough with this checklist. Take photos for your records and note any issues, no matter how minor.

• Floors, carpets, and tiles: Look for stains, holes, or broken tiles.
• Walls and ceilings: Check for cracks, holes, mold, or water damage.
• Doors and windows: Ensure they open, close, and lock properly.
• Light fixtures and electrical outlets: Test switches and outlets for functionality and safety.
• Plumbing: Run faucets, check under sinks for leaks, flush toilets, and ensure drains are clear.
• Heating and air conditioning: Confirm both systems work and inspect air filters.
• Appliances: Test the stove, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, and laundry machines (if included).
• Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers: Make sure they’re present and operational.
• Pest issues: Look for signs of insects or rodents.
• Exterior: Review porches, patios, parking, and storage spaces as applicable.

Georgia’s Required Move-In Inspection Form

Georgia does not have a standardized move-in inspection form, but state law requires landlords to provide a comprehensive move-in inspection list to the tenant before accepting a security deposit. This written list must detail the condition of the premises and existing damages. Tenants have the right to review the inspection, note any additional damages, and sign to acknowledge agreement.^[2]

• Form Name: Move-In/Move-Out Inspection List
• When and How Used:
  • The landlord provides this form before collecting a security deposit.
  • The tenant and landlord (or their agents) inspect the unit together, documenting each area.
  • Both parties sign the completed form to confirm agreement on the property’s condition.
• Read Georgia’s official law on move-in/move-out inspections here.

Photographs or videos are highly recommended in addition to the inspection list. This documentation will help if there is a dispute when you move out and request your security deposit back.

Required Disclosures in Georgia

Georgia law mandates that landlords provide certain information at the beginning of a tenancy:

• Flooding Disclosure: Landlords must inform you if flooding has damaged all or part of the living space three times in the preceding five years (see Georgia Code Section 44-7-20).
• Owner or Manager Information: You must receive written contact details for the property owner or manager (Georgia Code Section 44-7-3).
• Security Deposit Location: If your deposit is held in an escrow account, you must receive written notice of the account's location (Georgia Code Section 44-7-31).

Always request these disclosures in writing and keep them for your records.

What to Do If Issues Aren’t Fixed Before Move-In

If any issues are noted on your inspection and not corrected before move-in, notify your landlord in writing immediately. Document all communications. If the landlord refuses to address health or safety concerns, you may have rights under Georgia law to seek repairs or other remedies.^[1]

How to Complete Your Move-In Inspection in Georgia

• Request the landlord’s move-in inspection list and review it carefully.
• Conduct your own inspection using the checklist above, ideally with the landlord present.
• Take clear photos and/or video of every room, focusing on any issues.
• Note any additional damage on the inspection list before signing.
• Sign and date the finalized inspection list and keep a copy.
• Retain all documents, disclosures, and evidence safely throughout your tenancy.

Documenting everything at move-in is your strongest protection against security deposit disputes and unexpected charges when you move out.

1. What if my landlord does not provide a move-in inspection list?
   If your landlord fails to provide a move-in inspection list before accepting your deposit, Georgia law may limit their right to withhold money from your security deposit for damages. Always document the property and keep your own records.
2. Do I need to be present during the move-in inspection?
   While not required, it is strongly recommended you are present for the inspection to make sure all damages are accurately noted.
3. What should I do if I find more damage after I move in?
   Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible. Document the issue with photos. Request a written acknowledgment that the damage pre-existed your tenancy.
4. Can I use my own inspection form or checklist in Georgia?
   You may use your own list for documentation, but the landlord’s list is the official legal record. Attach your documentation for added protection.
5. Who oversees landlord-tenant issues in Georgia?
   Georgia’s landlord-tenant disputes are overseen by county magistrate courts. For more information, visit the Georgia Judicial Branch homepage.

Key Takeaways

• Always complete a move-in inspection with your landlord and sign the inspection list before giving your deposit.
• Take photos or video of the entire property to supplement the written report.
• Keep all documentation and disclosures for the duration of your lease to protect your rights and deposit.

Following these steps ensures a smooth start to your tenancy and helps prevent future disputes over damages or repairs.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Judicial Branch – Find your local county magistrate court and landlord-tenant information.
• Georgia Department of Community Affairs – Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Contact the local county magistrate court for help with tenant complaints and legal forms. A full list is available through the Georgia Judicial Branch.

---

1. Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act, Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) Title 44, Chapter 7
2. Georgia Law on Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Lists (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-33)

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