A Georgia Rental Application helps property owners and landlords evaluate prospective tenants. This document is often the first step in the rental process and ensures finding a financially sound and reliable renter.
Laws
- Application Fee – Non-refundable
- Application Fee Limits – No limits
- Security Deposit – No limits (no statute)
State Laws
Below can find essential information about renting in Georgia, such as application fees, security deposits, pet deposits, eviction record searches, and additional resources.
Application Fees
Applicants typically pay a rental application fee to cover the cost of credit and criminal background checks, regardless if their application is approved or not.
While a rental application fee typically covers the cost of background checks and other administrative expenses, some property owners in Georgia may apply the fee to a tenant’s first month’s rent.
Security Deposits
Georgia doesn’t stipulate a maximum amount you can charge for a rental security deposit. However, it sets a 30-day limit for when it must be returned to the tenant (Ga. Code § 44-7-34).
It is common practice to provide a receipt for any fees a tenant pays so that both parties have records of the financial transactions. You can use our rent receipt as proof of collecting charges and fees.
Pet Deposits
Georgia landlords are allowed to charge pet deposits and fees, as well as to prohibit tenants from keeping certain breeds in their rentals. A pet deposit is non-refundable and there is no cap on the amount a landlord can charge.
How To Conduct an Eviction Record Search
Eviction record searches uncover legal actions taken against a prospective tenant within the past seven years. These may include failure to pay rent or vacate a property after appropriate written notice.
By searching an applicant’s name, you can conduct eviction history searches through the Georgia Judicial Services portal.
Other Landlord Resources
Here are a couple of other helpful resources for landlords in Georgia to help in the selection process:
Sample
Download our sample Georgia rental application form for free, or use our document builder to create a customized application that meets your unique needs.
