What is a roommate agreement?

A roommate agreement is a private contract among people sharing a rental. It covers rent splits, utilities, chores, guests, and quiet hours. It does not replace the master lease with the landlord.

Does a roommate agreement bind the landlord in Georgia?

No. Only parties who sign the master lease have rights and duties against the landlord. Roommates who are not on the lease are not tenants of the landlord unless the landlord adds them in writing.

Who gets the security deposit back?

The landlord returns deposit money to whoever is named on the lease, following Georgia’s 30-day rule. Roommates should agree in writing how to split any refund among themselves.

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Georgia Roommate Agreement

A Georgia roommate agreement is among occupants. It does not bind the landlord or replace Title 44. Use it for rent shares, chores, and guests.

This is not a substitute for the residential lease.
The landlord’s deposit rules still bind the landlord.
Write down who paid what and how a roommate is replaced.

Georgia disclosure checklist

Last reviewed 2026-08-15. Confirm current statutes before you rely on this list.

Security-deposit article (if it applies)If it applies
If you own more than 10 rental units or use a real-estate broker / manager, Georgia’s deposit article requires escrow or a surety bond, a pre-occupancy damage list, and a 30-day itemized return. Missing the lists can forfeit the right to keep the deposit.
O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-30 to 44-7-35
Move-in condition listIf it applies
When the deposit article applies, give the tenant a comprehensive list of existing damage before or at move-in, and a chance to inspect and dissent.
O.C.G.A. § 44-7-33
Owner / agent identityRequired
Tenants need a name and address for the person who owns the property or is authorized to manage it and receive notices.
O.C.G.A. § 44-7-3
Lead-based paint (pre-1978)If it applies
Federal lead disclosure and the EPA pamphlet apply to pre-1978 housing.
42 U.S.C. § 4852d; 24 CFR Part 35

Deposit rule of thumb

For leases entered into or renewed on or after July 1, 2024, a security deposit generally may not exceed two months’ rent (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-30.1). When the security-deposit article applies (generally landlords with more than 10 rental units, or who use a broker or management company), the deposit must be escrowed or bonded, a move-in damage list is required, and unused money is generally due within 30 days after the landlord obtains possession. Ordinary wear and tear is not deductible.

O.C.G.A. §§ 44-7-30.1, 44-7-30 to 44-7-35

Georgia does not prescribe a statewide 24-hour entry statute. Put a reasonable-notice entry clause in the lease. Emergency entry is customary.

A Georgia tenancy at will generally takes 60 days’ notice from the landlord or 30 days’ notice from the tenant (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-7). A written month-to-month lease can set a different lawful notice period.

LeaseGen.io is not a law firm. These notes are educational summaries, not advice.

Frequently asked questions

Plain-language answers about Georgia roommate papers. LeaseGen.io is not a law firm. Confirm current statutes before anyone signs.

What is a roommate agreement?: A roommate agreement is a private contract among people sharing a rental. It covers rent splits, utilities, chores, guests, and quiet hours. It does not replace the master lease with the landlord.
Does a roommate agreement bind the landlord in Georgia?: No. Only parties who sign the master lease have rights and duties against the landlord. Roommates who are not on the lease are not tenants of the landlord unless the landlord adds them in writing.
Who gets the security deposit back?: The landlord returns deposit money to whoever is named on the lease, following Georgia’s 30-day rule. Roommates should agree in writing how to split any refund among themselves.

Georgia Roommate Agreement

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Frequently asked questions