Security Deposits Explained: What Landlords Can (and Can’t) Charge You For

Renting a new apartment is an exciting step. You get to move into a fresh space, decorate it the way you like, and make it your own. But before you get the keys, there’s usually something you have to pay first: a security deposit. Many renters don’t fully understand the rules about this deposit, what it covers, when you get it back, and what your landlord can legally charge you for.

Let’s break it all down in a way that’s easy to understand. This guide will walk you through security deposit rules, your tenant rights in Georgia, and helpful tips, especially if you’re thinking about renting in Lithonia, GA at places like Quarry Apartment Homes.

What Is a Security Deposit?

A security deposit is money that you give your landlord when you first move in. It’s not rent. It’s a promise. You’re saying, “I’ll take care of this apartment, and if I damage anything, I’ll help pay for it.” If you take care of the place and pay your rent on time, you should get your apartment security deposit back when you move out.

Most of the time, the deposit is about one month’s rent. But it can be a little more or less depending on the landlord’s policy. Some apartments in Lithonia with fair deposit policies, like those at Quarry Apartment Homes, make this part very simple. They are clear about how much the deposit is and when you’ll get it back.

What Landlords Can Charge You For

Let’s say you move out of your apartment. Your landlord checks the place and sees some problems. There are certain things they are allowed to take money out of your rental deposit for. These are called rental deposit deductions.

Here’s a list of what landlords can charge for:

• Unpaid rent: If you didn’t pay your rent, your landlord can use your deposit to cover that.
  
• Unpaid bills: If you left without paying for things like water or gas, they can take that from your deposit too.
  
• Major damage: If you broke a window, ripped the carpet, or made big holes in the wall, your landlord can charge you for those repairs.
  
• Excessive cleaning: If the apartment is very dirty and needs deep cleaning, that might be deducted.
  
• Pet damage: If your pet chewed on doors or scratched the floor, your landlord can use the deposit to fix it.
  

These are all things that are fair and allowed under Georgia rental laws.

What Landlords Can’t Charge You For

Now here’s the good news. Landlords are not allowed to take your deposit for everything. Some things are normal and happen just from living in a place for a while. That’s called normal wear and tear.

Here’s what landlords cannot charge you for:

• Faded paint or small scuffs on the wall
  
• Worn carpet from years of walking on it
  
• Minor nail holes from hanging pictures
  
• Dust or basic cleaning
  

Georgia laws are clear: Security deposit law in Lithonia, Georgia, and across the state, says landlords can’t charge for small things that happen over time. That’s part of your tenant rights in Georgia.

Georgia Security Deposit Rules

If you rent in Georgia, it’s helpful to know your rights and the laws that protect you. Here are some key things to remember:

• Your landlord must return your deposit within 30 days of you moving out.
  
• If they keep any part of the deposit, they must give you a written list of what they’re charging for.
  
• If they don’t return your money or give you the list, they could have to pay you up to three times the amount they kept. That’s the law!
  
• You should also get a move-in inspection and a move-out inspection. This helps everyone stay honest.
  

These rules are part of Georgia rental laws and are meant to protect renters like you.

Quarry Apartment Homes – Fair and Friendly Living in Lithonia, GA

Looking for a place to live where things are fair and easy? Check out Quarry Apartment Homes in Lithonia, GA. This beautiful community offers comfortable 2 and 3-bedroom apartment homes and townhomes in a peaceful area.

Here’s what makes Quarry special:

• Spacious floor plans with modern features
  
• Private patios and balconies for fresh air
  
• Pet-friendly community with outdoor areas
  
• A fun playground and places to grill with friends
  
• On-site laundry for easy clothes washing
  
• Close to schools, shopping, and public buses
  

Best of all, Quarry has fair deposit policies. They follow security deposit laws in Lithonia, Georgia and explain everything clearly when you sign your lease. You’ll know exactly how much your apartment security deposit is and what the landlord charges to expect, no surprises!

Tips to Get Your Full Deposit Back

Want to make sure you get all your deposit back when you move out? Here are a few easy tips:

1. Take pictures when you move in and out.
   
2. Clean everything before you leave, including the fridge and oven.
   
3. Fix small things, like filling nail holes or changing light bulbs.
   
4. Ask for a walk-through with your landlord before you leave.
   

If you do these things, your landlord will likely give your full deposit back, especially if you’re renting from a place like Quarry Apartment Homes Lithonia GA, where they treat renters with fairness and respect.

Ready to Make Your Move?

Now that you understand what landlords can charge for, and how security deposit rules work in Georgia, you can rent with confidence. If you’re looking for a home in a friendly community with fair policies, Quarry Apartment Homes in Lithonia, GA is a great choice.

Schedule your tour today and see why so many people love living here!