Good evidence keeps the dispute focused. It also keeps you from relying on memory when the landlord disputes the timeline, damage list, mailing address, or amount owed.
Georgia deposit disputes usually turn on possession timing, written itemization, inspection lists, ordinary wear and tear, escrow or bond compliance, and the amount still owed.
Keep timeline proof
- lease start and end dates
- date you vacated
- date possession was returned or accepted
- key return or access handoff proof
- current address sent to the landlord
- proof the landlord received or could use that address
Keep money proof
- deposit payment receipt
- lease deposit clause
- rent ledger, if available
- refund check or payment record
- written statement or deduction list
- escrow or bond information, if provided
- written notice of escrow account location and account number, if provided
Keep condition proof
- move-in photos
- move-out photos
- videos
- move-in damage list
- move-out damage list
- request to inspect the final damage list
- written dissent to disputed list items
- inspection notes
- repair messages
Keep communication proof
Save letters, emails, texts, portal messages, certified mail receipts, tracking records, and screenshots showing dates.
The goal is to make it easy to show what happened and when: possession, last-known-address mailing, inspection-list steps, itemization, ordinary wear and tear, and the amount still owed.
That record is what makes a step-by-step recovery process stronger. Each letter should point back to proof, not just repeat that you want the deposit returned.
Related Georgia guides
If your evidence dispute centers on condition, use these pages to organize the record:
- Georgia security deposit damage list
- Georgia security deposit written dissent
- Georgia security deposit move-out inspection
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Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.