Student Housing Rights: Georgia College Renters’ Guide

Renting off-campus as a college student in Georgia brings unique challenges. Understanding your rights as a student renter can help you avoid issues with landlords, manage your lease, and ensure your living space meets safety standards. This guide explains Georgia student housing rights, available forms, and what to do if you face problems with your landlord.

Your Rights as a Student Renter in Georgia

In Georgia, student renters have nearly all the same rights as other tenants under Georgia’s landlord-tenant law (O.C.G.A. Title 44 Chapter 7)^[1]. Whether you’re living in university-managed apartments or renting from a private landlord, here’s what you need to know:

• Right to a habitable unit: Your apartment or house must be safe and suitable to live in per Georgia law.
• Security deposit protections: Landlords must provide itemized statements if any deductions are made from your security deposit.
• Notice of rent increases: Unless your lease specifies, landlords may increase rent but must give reasonable notice before changes take effect.
• Protection from illegal eviction: Your landlord can’t remove you without due process.

Leases and Roommate Situations

Student leases are often 12-month contracts, but some may be month-to-month. Read your lease carefully to understand your rights and responsibilities, especially about subletting or replacing roommates. If one roommate leaves, all tenants listed are usually responsible for the full rent unless otherwise stated.

Security Deposits

Georgia landlords must return your security deposit within one month after you move out, minus any lawful deductions for damages or unpaid rent. You have the right to an itemized list of deductions.

• If you believe your deposit wasn’t handled properly, you may file a complaint or seek legal action using official forms.

Eviction: What Student Renters Need to Know

Evictions in Georgia follow a legal process. Landlords must provide written notice (usually 3 days to pay rent or leave, but your lease controls exact terms). If you don’t leave, they must file an eviction case in court.

• Your landlord cannot remove you or your belongings without a court order.
• If you receive a court notice, respond promptly to avoid losing by default.

Which Tribunal Handles Student Renter Disputes?

In Georgia, eviction and rental disputes are handled in the County Magistrate Court for your area.^[2] Use this resource to find your local court if you need to respond to an eviction or file a claim.

Key Official Forms for Georgia Student Renters

• Magistrate Court Dispossessory (Eviction) Complaint
  When to use: If your landlord starts an eviction case, you’ll be served with a Dispossessory Complaint. You must respond (file an Answer) within 7 days.
  Dispossessory Answer Form (Official PDF)
  Example: If you receive an eviction notice from the court, download and complete the Dispossessory Answer Form to state your side and preserve your legal rights.
• Security Deposit Dispute
  When to use: If your landlord unlawfully withholds your security deposit, you can file a claim in Magistrate Court.
  Statement of Claim (Official PDF)
  Example: File this form with your local Magistrate Court to seek return of your security deposit.

When to Contact Authorities

If you have issues with habitability, discrimination, or retaliation for asserting your rights, you can reach out to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Resources for guidance.^[3]

FAQ: Student Renters’ Rights in Georgia

1. Can my landlord evict me before my lease ends?
   Yes, but only for valid reasons such as lease violations or nonpayment of rent, and only through legal court proceedings.
2. Do I get my security deposit back after moving out?
   Yes, within one month, minus deductions for damage or unpaid rent. You are entitled to an itemized list of deductions.
3. What can I do if the landlord won’t make repairs?
   Tell your landlord in writing and keep records. If the issue isn’t fixed, you may seek action in Magistrate Court or contact state housing authorities.
4. Am I protected from rent increases during my lease?
   Generally, your rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease. For month-to-month renters, landlords must give reasonable advance notice of any increase.
5. What should I do if I receive an eviction lawsuit (Dispossessory Complaint)?
   File an Answer with the Magistrate Court within 7 days using the official form linked above to state your defense.

Key Takeaways

• Student renters in Georgia share most rights with all other tenants—including protection from unlawful evictions and the right to a safe residence.
• Always keep documentation for your lease, requests to your landlord, and court notices.
• Official resources and forms are available to help you respond to eviction actions or dispute improper handling of your security deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Department of Community Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Resources – Laws, guides, and complaint information for Georgia renters.
• Find your County Magistrate Court – Locate the court that handles filings, including evictions and security deposit disputes.
• HUD Georgia Resources for Renters – Federal guidance and directory for housing help.
• Georgia Legal Aid – Free or low-cost legal information and assistance for qualified renters.

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1. Georgia Landlord-Tenant Law (O.C.G.A. Title 44 Chapter 7)
2. Georgia Magistrate Court Directory
3. Georgia Department of Community Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Resources

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