Your Atlanta Landlord-Tenant Law Questions Answered: I Am a Landlord in Atlanta, What are My Obligations Under Georgia’s New “Safe at Home Act” and Where Can I Go for Legal Help?
In July, 2024, Georgia’s landlord-tenant laws got an update. Indeed, effective July 1, 2024, Georgia’s new “Safe at Home Act” introduced a major shift in landlord‑tenant law by, among other things, formally requiring that residential rental properties be “fit for human habitation.” This new statutory duty is found in O.C.G.A. § 44‑7‑13 and places legal obligations on landlords to maintain safe, healthy housing for tenants. If a landlord fails to meet these standards, a tenant may have grounds to bring legal action. Here we take a look at what this new law means for landlords in Atlanta and the Greater Metro Atlanta area, and where you can turn for legal help as a landlord in Atlanta.
The “Safe at Home Act” – What Does it Mean for Atlanta and Greater Metro Atlanta Area Landlords?
The Safe at Home Act mandates that “The landlord shall keep the premises in repair and shall be liable for all substantial improvements placed upon the premises by such landlord’s consent.” It further requires that, “Any contract, lease, license, or similar agreement, oral or written, for the use or rental of real property as a dwelling place is deemed to include a provision that the premises is fit for human habitation.” The new law places the onus on Marietta landlords to do several things. Under the new laws, Atlanta and Greater Metro Atlanta area landlords must ensure that their rental property complies with minimum habitability standards. This includes functioning plumbing, electricity, heating, cooling, pest control, mold remediation, and structural safety. Importantly, a landlord in Atlanta or the Greater Metro Atlanta area who ignores the Safe at Home Act risks legal liability, including claims for breach of implied warranty of habitability, deposit disputes, or wrongful eviction. As such, if your tenant makes claims that you have breached the new Safe at Home Act, it is best to speak with an experienced Atlanta and Greater Metro Atlanta area landlord-tenant lawyer about your case as soon as possible to protect your rights and your investment.
Getting Legal Help in Atlanta and The Greater Metro Atlanta Area – Atlanta Landlord-Tenant Lawyer
There is no doubt that navigating landlord-tenant issues in Atlanta and the Greater Metro Atlanta area can be challenging and complex, and landlords in Atlanta should reach out to an experienced Atlanta and Greater Metro Atlanta area landlord-tenant lawyer to discuss their landlord-tenant issues. If you are in the Atlanta or Greater Metro Atlanta area and you need legal help with your landlord-tenant matter, do not hesitate to reach out to the experienced Atlanta and Greater Metro Atlanta area landlord-tenant lawyers at Evans Law. The experienced Atlanta and Greater Metro Atlanta area landlord-tenant lawyers at Evans Law are here to help Atlanta landlords protect their hard-earned investment properties. Contact the lawyers at Evans Law today and speak with a lawyer about your rights and options now.
