Prevent Unannounced Landlord Visits in Georgia

Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Georgia published June 21, 2025 Flag of Georgia

As a renter in Georgia, protecting your privacy is important. Unexpected landlord visits can be disruptive and may violate your rights. This guide helps you understand your legal protections under Georgia law, explains what landlords can and cannot do, and shares practical steps you can take to address unannounced entries.

When Can a Landlord Legally Enter in Georgia?

Georgia does not have a specific state law dictating how much advance notice a landlord must give before entering a rental unit. Unlike some states, Georgia rental laws do not require written notice, but the lease agreement may specify notice rules—which are legally binding if both parties agreed.

  • Entry for repairs, maintenance, or inspection: Usually based on lease terms.
  • Emergencies (like fire or flooding): Immediate entry is allowed for safety.
  • Showings to future tenants or buyers: Follow lease notice requirements if present.

If your lease is silent on landlord entry notice, your right to 'quiet enjoyment' still protects against unreasonable or harassing visits. Each situation can depend on specific facts, so read your lease closely.

What Is 'Quiet Enjoyment' Under Georgia Law?

'Quiet enjoyment' means your landlord cannot disturb your reasonable use and privacy in your home. Under Georgia Code § 44-7-13, landlords must keep the rental in good repair, but they are also not allowed to use this as a reason for excessive or harassing entry. If a landlord repeatedly enters without notice and without a valid reason, this may breach your quiet enjoyment rights.

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Georgia Law and Entry Notice Requirements

Unlike many other states, Georgia's landlord-tenant laws do not specify a required entry notice period. Most entry rules are governed by the lease or rental agreement:

  • If your lease specifies 24- or 48-hour notice, the landlord must comply.
  • If there is no written notice requirement, landlords should still provide reasonable notice (24 hours is common practice).
Tip: If possible, address entry notice rules in your lease before signing. If you're already renting, send a written request to your landlord asking for reasonable notice before entry.

How to Stop Unannounced Landlord Visits

  • Check Your Lease: See if it outlines notice requirements for landlord entry.
  • Communicate in Writing: Politely remind your landlord (by email or letter) of your expectation for notice, citing the lease or 'quiet enjoyment' if needed.
  • Keep Records: Document any unannounced visits, noting dates, times, and what happened.
  • Request Reasonable Notice: Suggest a standard such as 24-hour advance written notice for non-emergency visits.
  • Seek Mediation or Legal Help: If repeated unannounced visits persist, consider contacting free legal aid, local courts, or tenant advocacy groups.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Georgia does not have a specific standardized form for "Notice of Entry" or "Tenant Notice Regarding Privacy." Instead, you should use a written letter or email to make a request or complaint. Here's how:

  • Sample Written Request: Write a simple letter or email asking your landlord to provide at least 24 hours' notice before entering. State your request clearly, include specific incidents, and keep a copy for your records.

If you believe your rights are being violated and need to escalate, disputes may be filed at your local Georgia Magistrate Court (handles landlord-tenant disputes and eviction cases).

Relevant Legislation in Georgia

While Georgia lacks detailed entry statutes, your lease and the general tenant protections under the law still support your privacy.

FAQ: Georgia Renters and Landlord Entry

  1. Can a landlord enter my rental without notice in Georgia?
    Georgia law does not require a specific notice period. However, most leases set out entry rules. If the lease is silent, you are still protected from unreasonable or harassing entries under tenant rights to quiet enjoyment.
  2. What should I do if my landlord keeps showing up unannounced?
    Politely provide a written request reminding your landlord of your right to notice, document each incident, and escalate to mediation or your local court if needed.
  3. Is there a government form for tenant privacy complaints in Georgia?
    No, Georgia does not have an official tenant privacy complaint form. Use a written letter or email and contact your local magistrate court if the issue continues.
  4. What if my lease says nothing about entry notice?
    Ask your landlord in writing to provide reasonable notice (such as 24 hours), and rely on your right to quiet enjoyment if entries feel harassing.
  5. Who handles landlord-tenant disputes in Georgia?
    The Georgia Magistrate Court is responsible for most residential landlord-tenant disputes.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

  • Georgia law gives renters the right to privacy and quiet enjoyment—even if no specific entry notice period is set in law.
  • Always check your lease for entry rules and communicate requests for notice in writing.
  • Your local magistrate court can assist if your landlord repeatedly enters without proper reason.

Being proactive and documenting your communications can help protect your privacy and resolve issues quickly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Georgia Code § 44-7-13 — Landlord's duty to keep premises in repair; liability for failure
  2. Georgia Code Title 44, Chapter 7 — Landlord and Tenant Law
  3. Georgia Magistrate Court – Landlord-Tenant Dispute Information
  4. Georgia.gov – Landlord and Tenant Rights

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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