Georgia Tenant Walk-Through Checklist: Secure Your Security Deposit

Moving out of a rental property in Georgia can be both exciting and stressful. The final walk-through is a key step to ensure your apartment is in good condition and to protect your security deposit. As a renter, understanding Georgia's move-out process, required forms, and legal rights empowers you to avoid common pitfalls and costly disputes with your landlord.

Why a Final Walk-Through Matters in Georgia

In Georgia, landlords may withhold security deposit funds for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other expenses allowed by law. A careful inspection—often called a walk-through or move-out inspection—helps create an accurate record of your apartment's condition at move-out. Following a checklist also supports your case if you disagree with deductions.

What Georgia Law Requires for Move-Out Inspections

Under the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-33), landlords who collect a security deposit must prepare a list of existing damages (a "move-out inspection report") before you turn in the keys. As a tenant, you have the right to be present during this inspection.

• The landlord must provide you an itemized list of damages before collecting the deposit for the first time.
• At the end of your lease, you may be present for the move-out inspection if you request it in writing.
• The landlord must return the deposit (minus lawful deductions) within one month after you return possession and provide your forwarding address.

Requesting the final inspection in writing protects your rights—keep a copy for your records.

Georgia Move-Out Checklist for Tenants

• Give proper written notice according to your lease terms.
• Clean the property thoroughly (including appliances, carpets, and bathrooms).
• Repair minor damage (such as nail holes or burned-out bulbs).
• Remove all belongings and trash.
• Document the home's condition with date-stamped photos or videos.
• Request a walk-through with your landlord and obtain a copy of the inspection report.
• Return all keys, garage openers, and access devices.
• Update your forwarding address in writing for the return of your security deposit.

Official Forms and What to Expect

• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Form: Georgia law does not provide a standard statewide form, but many landlords use a checklist or form titled "Move-In/Move-Out Condition Report." This document lists each room and possible defects.
• How to Use: At move-in, complete the form with your landlord and keep a signed copy. At move-out, review the same form together so both parties agree on new or existing damages.
• Sample Georgia Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (PDF)

If you disagree with the landlord’s assessment, note your objections directly on the form or in a follow-up letter—and retain a copy.

Security Deposit Return: Process and Timeline

Georgia requires your landlord to return the security deposit, along with an itemized deduction list if applicable, within one month after you vacate and provide your forwarding address. If the landlord fails to meet these requirements, you may be entitled to the full deposit and potentially additional damages.^[1]

What If There’s a Dispute?

If you believe your deposit was wrongfully withheld, you can contact the Magistrate Court of Georgia, which handles most landlord-tenant disputes in the state. File a claim for the return of your deposit, and bring copies of your inspection forms, photos, lease, and correspondence.

Georgia Tenancy Law Reference

• Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act (Official Code of Georgia § 44-7)
• Georgia Consumer Protection Division: Landlord-Tenant Rights

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if my landlord doesn’t offer a final walk-through in Georgia?
   If your landlord fails to provide a walk-through or itemized damage list before withholding funds, you may have legal grounds to recover your full deposit and additional damages. Documentation is key.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   Georgia law requires landlords to return deposits (with any deduction list) within one month after move-out and after you provide your forwarding address.
3. Can I dispute deductions from my security deposit?
   Yes. If you disagree, you can write a formal objection. If unresolved, you may file a case with the Magistrate Court of Georgia with copies of all relevant documents.
4. Are normal wear and tear deductions allowed?
   No. Landlords can only make deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or specified costs in your lease.
5. Where do I turn for help with a landlord-tenant dispute?
   The Magistrate Court of Georgia and the Georgia Consumer Protection Division are official resources for assistance and filing complaints.

Key Takeaways for Georgia Renters

• Always document your unit’s condition at move-out and request a walk-through in writing.
• Use the inspection checklist and keep records of everything signed and submitted.
• Report disputes early to the Magistrate Court if your security deposit is unfairly withheld.

Following this process can help you secure your security deposit and resolve move-out issues professionally.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Consumer Protection Division – Landlord/Tenant Rights: Comprehensive guides and complaint forms
• Magistrate Court of Georgia Directory: Find your county court for disputes
• Georgia Legal Aid – Renters Rights: Free and low-cost tenant legal help
• Sample Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist (Georgia Consumer Protection)

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1. Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) § 44-7-33 – Security deposits
2. Georgia Consumer Protection Division: Landlord-Tenant Rights
3. Georgia Magistrate Courts: Residential Landlord-Tenant Disputes

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