Pro Peach Cleaning · October 12, 2026

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back in Georgia

Moving out of an Atlanta apartment or rental home? The condition you leave it in has a lot to do with how much of your security deposit comes back. Here's how to give yourself the best chance.

Know the Basics

Georgia's landlord-tenant law (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-30 and following) covers security deposits, including move-in and move-out inspections and the timeline for returning a deposit or listing deductions. Read your lease, and check the current law or ask a local tenant resource if you have questions. General information only, not legal advice.

Before You Clean

• Find your move-in inspection list or photos.
• Remove everything, including items in closets, cabinets and the fridge.
• Patch small nail holes only if your lease allows it.

Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen

• Inside and outside of every cabinet and drawer.
• Inside the oven, fridge and microwave.
• Stovetop, range hood, counters, backsplash and sink.

Bathrooms

• Tub, shower, toilet, sink, mirror and cabinets.
• Grout and soap scum, which inspectors notice.

Every room

• Baseboards, door frames, light switches and outlet covers.
• Window sills and tracks.
• Closets, shelves and rods.
• Floors vacuumed and mopped.

Document Everything

Take date-stamped photos of every room after cleaning, including inside the oven, fridge and cabinets. Keep receipts for professional cleaning.

Let a Pro Handle It

Pro Peach move-out cleaning includes inside cabinets and drawers, inside the oven, fridge and microwave, closets, baseboards, bathrooms and floors, and it's backed by a 24-hour free touch-up. See our full move-out cleaning checklist for Atlanta and move-out cleaning cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do landlords check at move-out?

Most check the kitchen (inside appliances and cabinets), bathrooms, floors, walls and baseboards, and compare them with the move-in condition.

Does a professional move-out clean help get my deposit back?

A thorough clean addresses the areas landlords inspect most. Keep the receipt and take photos after the clean.

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