Eviction Laws in Georgia
Complete landlord & tenant guide — notice requirements, filing fees, tenant rights, and step-by-step instructions.
3
Day Notice Minimum
$60
Court Filing Fee
2-3 weeks
Process Length
Weak
Tenant Protections
🏠 Landlord Guide
How to Evict a Tenant in Georgia
- 1 Serve the Notice
Serve a written notice giving the tenant 3 days to pay, cure the violation, or vacate.
- 2 File in Court
File an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit at your local courthouse. Filing fee: $60.
- 3 Serve Tenant with Summons
The court will issue a summons. Have it served on the tenant by an authorized person.
- 4 Attend the Hearing
Present your evidence. If tenant doesn't appear, you'll likely get a default judgment.
- 5 Writ of Possession
After winning, get a Writ of Possession. The sheriff will enforce the lockout.
🔑 Tenant Rights
Your Rights as a Tenant in Georgia
- ✓ You have 3 days after receiving a notice to respond before your landlord can file in court.
- ✓ You have the right to appear in court and present your defense. Always show up.
- ✓ Your landlord cannot change your locks, remove your belongings, or shut off utilities without a court order.
- ✓ Tenant protections in Georgia are rated Weak.
- ✓ Common defenses: improper notice, habitability issues, retaliation, discrimination, or rent was already paid.
- ✓ An eviction can stay on your record for 7 years — learn about expungement in Georgia.
Notice Types Used in Georgia
Pay or Quit Notice
Non-payment of rent
Unconditional Quit Notice
Serious violations, repeat offenses, illegal activity
Eviction Rate
5.4%
annual eviction rate
Self-Representation
Allowed
can represent yourself in court
Top Cities
Atlanta
Columbus
Savannah
Augusta
Have an eviction on your record?
Find out if you qualify for eviction expungement in Georgia — which can help you rent again and improve your housing options.
Georgia Expungement Guide →