Georgia Move-Out Checklist
The best time to protect your deposit is before the dispute starts.
Georgia disputes can turn on possession, condition evidence, move-in and move-out damage lists, and whether deductions are properly itemized.
Before you leave
- save your lease and deposit payment proof
- confirm your tenancy end date and expected possession return date in writing
- take clear photos and video before removing the last items
- clean ordinary areas and remove belongings
- document keys, access devices, and possession delivery
- preserve any move-in damage list
- preserve any written dissent you made to the move-in damage list
- ask how and when the move-out inspection and final damage list will occur
Give a current address
Give the landlord a current mailing address in writing and keep proof. Georgia allows the landlord to comply by mailing the written statement and required payment to the tenant's last known address by first-class mail. A clear address record helps prevent delivery disputes.
At possession return
Save proof of the date possession was returned or accepted. This can include key return proof, a move-out confirmation email, a dated portal message, a walkthrough record, or other delivery proof.
After possession is delivered
Track these Georgia-specific items:
- whether the landlord inspected and prepared a final damage list within the statutory timing
- whether you requested or received an opportunity to inspect the final list
- whether you specifically dissented in writing to disputed list items
- whether the landlord sent a written statement identifying exact reasons for any retained amount
- whether any refund balance was sent with the statement
- whether the landlord mailed anything to your last known address
Then track the 30-day return and accounting period from the landlord obtaining possession.
If the landlord later misses the deadline or sends unsupported deductions, this checklist becomes the foundation for the next letters. The Georgia Recovery System is built around that sequence: document first, follow up clearly, then escalate if needed.
Related Georgia guides
- Georgia security deposit move-out inspection
- Georgia security deposit written dissent
- Georgia security deposit evidence guide
Get the Deposit Recovery System
Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.