Georgia Eviction Law at a Glance
State Statute
Ga. Code §44-7-50 — Georgia Landlord and Tenant Act
Notice Periods
- Nonpayment: Immediate Demand for Possession (No Statutory Notice Period)
- Lease violation: Immediate Demand for Possession
- Unconditional: Immediate Demand for Possession
- End of tenancy: 60-Day Notice to Vacate
Available Defenses
- Habitability (Ga. Code §44-7-13)
- Retaliation (Ga. Code §44-7-24.1)
- Procedural defects
- Discrimination (Fair Housing Act)
Right to Cure
NO — Georgia does not require a mandatory cure period — landlord can demand immediate possession for nonpayment
Self-Help Eviction
PROHIBITED — Landlord must use court process (Ga. Code §44-7-14.1)
Court & Filing
Magistrate Court or State Court
Landlord must file dispossessory action in magistrate court after issuing demand for possession
Complaints: Georgia Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
Additional Protections
- Georgia has minimal statutory notice requirements — landlord can demand immediate possession
- However, landlord must still file court action and obtain court order before removing tenant
- Self-help eviction is prohibited — landlord cannot change locks or cut utilities
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Georgia Eviction Response FAQ
How many days do I have to respond to an eviction notice in Georgia?
In Georgia, the response deadline depends on the type of eviction notice: Nonpayment: Immediate Demand for Possession (No Statutory Notice Period); Lease violation: Immediate Demand for Possession; Unconditional: Immediate Demand for Possession; End of tenancy: 60-Day Notice to Vacate. Missing your deadline can result in a default judgment and forced move-out.
What defenses can I raise against eviction in Georgia?
Available defenses in Georgia include: Habitability (Ga. Code §44-7-13), Retaliation (Ga. Code §44-7-24.1), Procedural defects, Discrimination (Fair Housing Act). The availability depends on your specific circumstances.
Does Georgia require landlords to give tenants a right to cure?
No. Georgia does not require a mandatory cure period — landlord can demand immediate possession for nonpayment
Can my landlord evict me without going to court in Georgia?
No. Under Ga. Code §44-7-14.1, self-help eviction is prohibited in Georgia. Your landlord must file in Magistrate Court or State Court and obtain a judgment.
What should I include in an eviction response letter in Georgia?
Your letter should: (1) identify the notice by date and type, (2) cite Ga. Code §44-7-50, (3) assert applicable defenses, (4) demand proper legal procedure, (5) state your intent to defend in court, and (6) be sent via certified mail.
Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in Georgia?
File complaints with the Georgia Attorney General Consumer Protection Division and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For illegal self-help eviction, contact local law enforcement.
Eviction Response Letters by State
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