What are my obligations as a landlord in Georgia when it comes to renting out a property?
As a landlord in Georgia, you have several obligations when renting out a property. Here are some of the key obligations that you should know:
- Provide a Habitable Property: As a landlord, it is your responsibility to provide a property that is safe and habitable for your tenants. This means that the property should be clean, well-maintained, and free from any health and safety hazards.
- Make Repairs: If any repairs are needed on the property, you are obligated to make them in a timely manner. This includes repairing any leaks, fixing appliances, and repairing any damage that is not caused by the tenant.
- Respect Tenant's Rights: As a landlord, you must respect the privacy and rights of your tenants. You cannot enter the property without proper notice, and you cannot discriminate against tenants based on their race, gender, religion, or any other protected characteristic.
- Provide Necessary Disclosures: Before renting out the property, you must provide your tenants with certain disclosures. This includes disclosing any known defects or hazards on the property and providing a copy of the lease agreement.
- Return Security Deposit: When the lease ends, you are required to return the tenant's security deposit within 30 days, along with an itemized list of any deductions that were made.
It is important to note that there may be additional obligations depending on the specific circumstances of your rental property. For example, if the property is subject to a homeowners' association, there may be additional rules and regulations that you must follow.
If you have any questions or concerns about your obligations as a landlord in Georgia, it is recommended that you speak with a licensed attorney who can provide you with legal guidance specific to your situation.