Is your landlord trespassing? Not in Georgia. Here’s what else your landlord can do
Rental or lease agreements can be long and complicated to read, and many agreements only come with conditions covering the landlord.
But what about your rights and privacy?
Here are some questions and answers regarding renter rights:
Is your landlord trespassing?
The short answer: no, not in Georgia.
According to safewise, Georgia is one of 13 states that doesn’t have a statute limiting entry for landlords. This means they can enter your residence anytime they want.
Typically, your landlord will give you 24 to 48 hours notice before they expect to enter, but in the Peach State, notices are not necessary.
Other states without a statute limiting entry are:
Idaho
Illinois
Maryland
Michigan
Missouri
New York
North Carolina
Pennsylvania
South Dakota
Texas
West Virginia
Wyoming
Why does your landlord need to come in?
If you are curious about why your landlord would need to come in unannounced or without notice, here are a few reasons they might come:
In an emergency
To make repairs
To show the property to prospective tenants if you’re ending your lease
To inspect for safety issues or to ensure the property meets building safety codes
Can you install security cameras?
If you feel the need to install security cameras inside your rental property, you typically don’t have to ask permission. However, you should read over your agreement or contract before installing them.
Oftentimes, landlords want to make sure there won’t be any damage to walls if you have to drill into them to install the camera.
If you do install a security camera, you must also abide by privacy laws, which protect people in bedrooms or bathrooms. If you get a video doorbell, there are also regulations for it.
Here’s what to do if you think your rights have been violated:
If you think your landlord has violated your rights, a court will refer to and recognize your rights.
Specially, your right to “quiet enjoyment.”
“Quiet enjoyment refers to the right of an occupant of real property, particularly of a residence, to enjoy and use premises in peace and without interference,” according to the US Legal website.
Check out more privacy laws and tips on the safewise website.
This story was originally published June 1, 2023 at 2:49 PM.
