O.C.G.A. § 44-7-33: Covered landlords must present a list of existing damage before accepting the deposit and allow the tenant to inspect before occupancy

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Reviewed: 2026-08-11

How sources are checked →

Deadline context

30 days

Possible remedy

Covered rentals: 3x withheld unless bona fide error

Primary statute

O.C.G.A. § 44-7-30 et seq.

Official section source

What the cited source addresses

Covered landlords must present a list of existing damage before accepting the deposit and allow the tenant to inspect before occupancy.

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How to review this source with your facts

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Frequently asked questions

Questions to compare with the current source before using the citation in a letter or filing.

What does O.C.G.A. § 44-7-33 address?

Covered landlords must present a list of existing damage before accepting the deposit and allow the tenant to inspect before occupancy. Open the current official text to check coverage, definitions, and exceptions for your situation.

How long does a Georgia landlord have to return the deposit?

30 days after termination of the rental agreement or the tenant's departure, whichever occurs last (30 days).

Could a penalty or other remedy apply?

For landlords covered by the inspection-and-escrow rules, three times the sum improperly withheld plus reasonable attorney fees may apply unless the landlord proves a bona fide error despite required procedures. Check the source's required facts, conditions, notices, defenses, and remedy language before relying on it.

Next steps

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