Georgia Rent Increase Laws: What Tenants Should Know

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In recent years, Georgia has experienced a significant surge in rental prices. This trend is particularly notable when we look at the data: the average rent in Georgia soared to $1,542, marking a 38.35% increase from the 2020 figure of $1,114.

This rise in rent is not just a local phenomenon; it reflects a nationwide trend where the average rent reached $2,018 in March, up 26.47% from 2020. To afford such rents, a tenant would need an income of approximately $80,720 annually, based on the standard affordability ratio of 30%.

Interestingly, the typical American renter, often in their late 30s with a college education, earns less than this amount, averaging around $67,500 annually. This disparity between income and rental costs is causing many to reconsider their housing options, especially in light of increasing home values and interest rates.

Georgia's Stance on Rent Control

Georgia stands out in its approach to rent control. Unlike some states, Georgia has no laws limiting how much landlords can charge for rent. Furthermore, state law prevents local governments from implementing their own rent control policies. This means landlords in Georgia have considerable freedom in setting rental prices.

How Much Can Rent Be Raised?

In Georgia, there is no legal cap on rent increases. Landlords can raise the rent by any amount they deem appropriate. This lack of restriction provides landlords with flexibility but also places a significant burden on tenants, especially those with limited income.

When Can Landlords Raise Rent?

Landlords in Georgia can increase rent for any reason, provided they adhere to certain conditions. They must give proper notice and cannot raise the rent during the fixed term of a lease unless the lease explicitly allows for it. Additionally, rent increases cannot be discriminatory or retaliatory.

Prohibited Reasons for Rent Increase

The Federal Fair Housing Act outlines specific grounds on which landlords cannot base rent increases. These include race, color, gender, religion, nationality or origin, familial status, and disability. Georgia law further extends these protections, prohibiting rent increases as retaliation against tenants for actions like filing health or safety complaints, exercising legal rights, joining tenant unions, or requesting repairs.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

In Georgia, landlords must provide 60 days' notice for rent increases if there is no written lease or the lease term has expired. During a lease term, rent cannot be raised unless the lease agreement specifically allows it.

Frequency of Rent Increases

There is no restriction on how often landlords can increase rent in Georgia. They can do so as frequently as they like, as long as they provide sufficient notice each time.

Sources:

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/10-states-highest-rent-increases

https://ipropertymanagement.com/laws/georgia-rent-increases