2024 updates to Georgia’s rent increase guidelines

Currently, there are no rent regulations in Georgia, meaning landlords can raise the rent to any price without having to worry about capping the rent. Lawmakers have been pushing for Georgia cities to have the power to enforce rent control laws during a housing crisis.

A landlord can make rules about properties they own, and if they or the tenants agree to a specific rent increase limit within the lease agreement, a county or city governing body can’t stop them.

How to raise rents in Georgia

When a fixed-term lease is up, the tenant can enter into a tenancy-at-will arrangement without a formal lease. There is no definite date for an end of the lease term with a tenancy-at-will; however, the landlord or tenant can end the tenancy at any time by giving proper notice at least 60 days in advance. If the landlord and tenant do not enter into a month-to-month lease, the landlord can give the tenant a notice that the rent will increase, and the tenant has to pay if they remain in the rental property. A landlord can also draft a lease renewal detailing the new rental prices.

Before raising the rent on a month-to-month or fixed-term lease, the landlord typically gives the tenant at least a 30-day heads-up. Here are steps you can take before setting a new rent price.

Step one: Determine your new rent price

Analyze market trends, assess cash flow, and establish clear return goals. Researching nearby rentals with similar features and amenities provides helpful insights into the average rental rates––what are those landlords charging for monthly rent? Though Georgia currently has no restrictions or rent control laws, staying informed is crucial, as the fair housing laws can change.

Step two: Prepare the notice of the rent hike

Prepare the notice of increases. It’s your preference to write a brief explanation to the tenant detailing why you are raising the rent. Hyperlink the annual rent increase and any other necessary forms, such as an addendum, if your tenant recently got a new pet and you are requesting a pet deposit.

Step three: Notify your tenant of the rent hike

Ensuring your tenant gets sufficient notice about a rent increase during the lease renewal keeps the landlord-tenant relationship running smoothly. Many landlords send a proper notice of the rent adjustment with the new lease agreement 30 days before the current rental agreement has expired. In Georgia, landlords must send a 60-day notice of rent increase.

Resolving issues about rent control

To guide you in the right direction when questions arise about the rental process, here’s a list of resources to help you stay on the right path:

• Local Fair Housing laws
• Landlord-tenant regulations and basic tenant rights
• Tenant Report for property owners

FAQ: Georgia rent increase guidelines for landlords