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
- Fee Limits – No limits
- Security Deposit – No limits (no statute)
State Laws
Application Fees
Applicants typically pay a fee to cover the cost of credit and criminal background checks, regardless of whether the applicant is approved.
While the fee typically covers the cost of background checks and other administrative expenses, some property owners 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 returning it 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
Landlords can charge pet deposits and fees, prohibiting tenants from keeping certain breeds in their rentals. A pet deposit is non-refundable, and there is no cap on the amount that can be charged.
Other Resources
Here are a couple of other helpful resources for landlords to help in the selection process:
How To Conduct an Eviction Record Search
Eviction record searches uncover legal actions against prospective tenants within the past seven years. These may include failure to pay rent or vacate a property after appropriate written notice.
You can conduct eviction history searches through the Georgia Judicial Services portal by searching an applicant’s name.
Sample
