What happens if a Georgia landlord does not return the deposit?
Up to 3x the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney fees under OCGA 44-7-35. The tenant must give the landlord 30 days from move-out to return the deposit (or the balance with itemized statement). After that, the tenant can demand return by certified mail and, if no response, file in small-claims court. Georgia courts treat missed deadlines as a strong signal of bad faith. The penalty is in addition to the wrongfully withheld deposit. Self-help (refusing to leave or damaging the unit) is never the answer; the legal process is faster than self-help in most Georgia jurisdictions.
Source: OCGA 44-7-34
This is an informational answer based on OCGA 44-7-34 as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a Georgia-licensed attorney.