A Georgia security deposit move-out inspection matters because it can shape what the landlord claims, what gets deducted, and what proof you have if you disagree. For covered landlords, Georgia uses a final damage-list process tied to O.C.G.A. section 44-7-33.
In plain English: after you move out and give the unit back, the landlord may need to inspect, list claimed damage, and let you inspect the list if you request it. If you disagree, say so in writing and identify the disputed items.
Georgia deposit disputes can be more procedural than they look. The issue is not only the 30-day deadline. The move-out inspection, final damage list, written disagreement, address proof, and coverage rules can all affect the dispute.
What the Georgia security deposit move-out inspection is for
The move-out inspection is about condition. The landlord is comparing the rental unit at move-out with the move-in record, photos, and any existing-damage list.
For covered landlords, Georgia's security deposit article includes a final damage-list process. That list matters because damage deductions should be tied to specific claimed damage, not vague complaints or ordinary wear and tear.
Possession and surrender in normal language
Georgia's rules use terms like possession and surrender.
Possession means the landlord has the rental unit back. In practical terms, keys and access have been returned, the tenant has moved out, or the landlord has accepted that the unit is back.
Surrender means you gave the unit back. That can happen when you return keys, confirm move-out in writing, or otherwise make clear that you are done occupying the rental unit.
This matters because Georgia's 30-day return and accounting rule under O.C.G.A. section 44-7-34 runs from when the landlord obtains possession of the rental unit.
The final damage list
The final damage list is the landlord's written list of claimed damage after move-out. If the landlord keeps money for damage, the later written explanation should connect to that list.
The list should be specific. A line like "cleaning and repairs" is much less useful than an item-by-item list showing what was claimed, where it was located, and what amount was being charged.
Your right to inspect and disagree
Georgia gives tenants inspection rights in the damage-list process for covered landlords. If you want to inspect the final damage list and the claimed damage, ask in writing and keep proof of the request.
If you disagree with the final list, do not just say "I disagree." Identify the specific items you dispute and briefly explain why. That written disagreement is often called written dissent. In normal language, it means disagreeing in writing.
What to photograph or video
Before you leave, document the rental unit in a way that makes sense to a person who was not there.
- each room from the doorway
- floors, walls, ceilings, counters, cabinets, appliances, sinks, tubs, and toilets
- areas the landlord might later claim were damaged
- cleaned areas
- repaired areas
- keys, access cards, garage remotes, or other items being returned
- the move-out date and condition if your phone records that metadata
Save the move-in photos too. The best evidence often comes from comparing move-in condition to move-out condition.
How the inspection connects to the 30-day rule
Georgia's 30-day rule is not just about sending money. If the landlord keeps any amount, the landlord should send a written explanation of what was kept and why. If the withholding is based on damage, the final damage list matters.
Georgia also allows the landlord to mail the written explanation and required payment to the tenant's last known address by first-class mail. Give a current mailing address in writing so the landlord has the right place to send the deposit response.
What to do next
Keep the inspection issue simple:
- give a current mailing address in writing
- confirm when you gave the unit back
- take photos and video before leaving
- save the move-in damage list
- ask for the move-out inspection or final damage list in writing
- disagree in writing with any specific list items you dispute
- track the 30-day return and accounting deadline
Related Georgia guides
- Georgia security deposit damage list
- Georgia security deposit written dissent
- Georgia move-out checklist
- Georgia security deposit deadline
The free guide above explains the rule. The paid DepositBackGA Recovery System is a shortcut: four Georgia-specific letters that help you use the timing, inspection-list record, and escalation sequence in order.
Get the Deposit Recovery System
Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.