What Atlanta Landlords Need to Know About Georgia’s New Rental Laws

Georgia’s rental laws are changing—and Atlanta landlords who aren’t paying attention could face real consequences.

New legislation passed in 2024 is raising the bar for rental property standards across the state. With clearer definitions around habitability and tighter guidelines on evictions and deposits, expectations for landlords are evolving fast.

In this blog, we’ll break down what’s changed, what you need to do to stay compliant, and how Renters Warehouse Atlanta helps make the process easy and stress-free.

What’s Changing in Georgia Rental Law

In 2024, Georgia passed new legislation set to go into full effect in 2025. While the state historically had few enforceable habitability standards, the new law—often referred to as the “Safe at Home Act” (HB 404)—establishes minimum conditions that all rental properties must meet.

For the first time, Georgia law now clearly defines requirements for:

• Functioning heat and hot water – Properties must offer reliable heating and hot water systems year-round.
• Safe and operable plumbing and electrical systems – Landlords are responsible for maintaining basic infrastructure and ensuring tenant safety.
• Structural maintenance and pest prevention – Rentals must be structurally sound and free from infestations.

Previously, these requirements were vague. Now, they’re clearly defined—and non-negotiable.

What This Means for Landlords

These changes aren’t just technical—they directly impact how landlords operate and manage their rentals. Here's what you need to know:

Property Conditions Matter More Than Ever

Basic repairs and maintenance can no longer be deferred. Landlords must ensure that properties meet safety and habitability standards year-round.

Potential Fines or Legal Action

Failure to comply can result in formal complaints, lawsuits, and even being barred from renting the property until issues are resolved.

Documentation & Record-Keeping Are Key

Detailed maintenance logs, repair invoices, and tenant communication records will be essential in proving compliance.

Tenants Are More Informed

Tenants are increasingly aware of their rights and more likely to raise concerns or report unsafe living conditions.

Best Practices to Stay Compliant

To avoid legal trouble and protect your property (and reputation), here are a few proactive steps you can take:

• Conduct annual property inspections – Ideally once a year and always between tenants.
• Fix maintenance issues quickly – Prioritize HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and safety-related concerns.
• Document everything – From service requests to repairs and tenant communications.
• Create a tenant-friendly maintenance process – Make it easy for tenants to report issues and track responses.
• Review and update your lease agreements – Reflect the new standards and clearly define responsibilities.

Stay Compliant Without the Stress

Keeping up with changing laws can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re managing multiple properties or trying to do it all on your own. That’s where Renters Warehouse Atlanta comes in.

• We track law changes so you don’t have to: We stay ahead of local and state legislation to keep your properties compliant.
• Property inspections and maintenance are built into our process: From seasonal tune-ups to tenant requests, we coordinate it all.
• We reduce your legal risk—and your stress: Our full-service model keeps your property protected, tenants satisfied, and your time freed up.

Ready to Protect Your Rental and Stay Ahead of the Curve?

Understanding Georgia’s new rental laws isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about safeguarding your property, your income, and your tenant relationships.

Get ahead now—before compliance becomes a problem.

Download our Expert Guide to Rental Property Management
Request a Free Rental Analysis Or Schedule a Call with the Renters Warehouse Atlanta team today

Let us handle the hard stuff—so you can focus on the returns.