Georgia Renters: How to Document Existing Damage at Move-In

When you move into a new rental in Georgia, making note of any existing damage is a key step to protect your security deposit and help avoid disputes with your landlord. Understanding Georgia's move-in inspection process and proper documentation can give you peace of mind during your tenancy.

Understanding Your Rights: Move-In Inspections in Georgia

Georgia law—under the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act, O.C.G.A. § 44-7-33—requires landlords to conduct a formal move-in inspection and provide a written inspection list to renters before any payments or occupancy. This helps to record any pre-existing damage or issues with the property at the beginning of your lease.

What Is a Move-In Inspection Report?

This is a checklist describing the condition of each room and feature of your rental. It protects you by documenting any problems that were already there before you moved in.

• Must be provided by the landlord before you pay your deposit or move in
• Lets you add your own observations about existing damage
• Serves as the basis for any deductions from your security deposit when you move out

Required Forms and Documentation

Georgia does not offer a standard state-issued move-in inspection form, but the law requires landlords to provide a written itemized inspection list. This checklist should cover every room and major feature.

• Move-In and Move-Out Inspection List (No official form number) – Provided by your landlord when you begin your lease. Review the full details of what must be included on the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act requirements.
  Example: Before moving in, your landlord gives you an inspection checklist listing each room, appliance, and fixture. You walk through, noting scratches on the kitchen floor and a crayon mark on the bedroom wall. Sign and date the form, keep a copy, and consider sending images to your landlord for additional proof.

How to Document Existing Damage at Move-In

• Ask your landlord for the inspection list before moving in, as required by law.
• Go through the unit room by room. Note all damage, even if it seems small (stains, broken blinds, chipped paint).
• Take clear photos (and optional videos) of each issue, making sure the date is recorded.
• Write your observations and corrections directly on the inspection list or as an attachment.
• Sign, date, and return one copy to the landlord; keep a copy for your records.

This process ensures there is an agreed record of the property’s condition when you moved in, reducing the chances of future disputes over your security deposit.

What Happens If Damage Isn't Documented?

If you don't record existing damage at move-in, you may risk being held responsible for it when you move out. Only the damages noted on your move-in inspection or documented with photos will be counted as "pre-existing." This can impact what your landlord is allowed to deduct from your security deposit.

If you notice damage after moving in, promptly notify your landlord in writing and ask that it be added to the inspection list. Keep copies of all communications for your records.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Georgia?

If you have a dispute over your security deposit or move-in inspection, you can seek help in magistrate court, also called "small claims court" in Georgia. Magistrate courts are responsible for landlord-tenant disputes such as deposit return and damage disagreements. Learn more at the Georgia Magistrate Courts Council.

FAQ: Move-In Damage Documentation in Georgia Rentals

1. What if my landlord does not provide a move-in inspection form?
   Georgia law requires landlords to give you an inspection list before you move in. If they fail to do so, you may have added protections regarding your security deposit. Always document the condition yourself anyway and notify your landlord in writing.
2. Can I make changes to the inspection form my landlord gives me?
   Yes. You have the right to add your own observations to the inspection list before signing. Take photos to back up your notes.
3. Can I use my phone to take photos and videos for documentation?
   Absolutely. Photos and videos are excellent ways to support your inspection checklist and can be used as evidence if there is a dispute.
4. Where do I get help if the landlord keeps my deposit unfairly?
   You can file a claim at your local Georgia magistrate (small claims) court. Contact information is available on the Georgia Magistrate Courts Council website.
5. Does Georgia have an official state move-in inspection form?
   No, but your landlord must provide a written inspection list by law. Review O.C.G.A. § 44-7-33 for required details.

Key Takeaways for Georgia Renters

• Always receive and complete an itemized move-in inspection list before you pay or move in.
• Use photos and written notes to document all visible damage at move-in for your protection.
• Hold onto signed copies and all records to help resolve any future disputes over your security deposit.

Proper documentation now can save you significant time and money at move-out.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Magistrate Courts Council – Official information for landlord-tenant disputes
• Georgia Department of Community Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Resources
• For legal questions or tenant advocacy, contact Georgia Legal Aid

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1. Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act, O.C.G.A. § 44-7-33 – Security Deposits and Inspection
2. Georgia Magistrate Courts Council – Landlord-Tenant Dispute Process
3. Georgia Department of Community Affairs – Landlord-Tenant Resources

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