Rental or lease agreements can be lengthy and complicated to read, and many contracts only contain terms for the landlord.
But what about your rights and privacy?
Here are some questions and answers about tenant 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 law restricting landlord entry. This means that they can enter your residence at any time.
Usually your landlord will give you 24 to 48 hours notice before he is expected to arrive. However, notifications are not required in the Peach State.
Other countries without legal entry restrictions are:
-
Idaho
-
Illinois
-
Maryland
-
Michigan
-
Missouri
-
new York
-
North Carolina
-
Pennsylvania
-
South Dakota
-
Texas
-
West Virginia
-
Wyoming
Why does your landlord have to step in?
If you’re wondering why your landlord needs to step in unannounced or without notice, here are a few reasons why:
Can surveillance cameras be installed?
If you feel the need to install security cameras in your rental property, you usually do not need to ask permission. However, you should read your agreement or contract before installing.
Oftentimes, landlords want to make sure the walls don’t get damaged if they have to be drilled through to install the camera.
If you install a security camera, you must also comply with privacy laws that protect people in bedrooms or bathrooms. If you get a video doorbell, there are regulations for that too.
What to do if you think your rights have been violated:
If you think your landlord has violated your rights, a court will recognize and honor your rights.
In particular, your right to “quiet enjoyment”.
“Quiet enjoyment refers to the right of a occupant of a property, particularly a residence, to enjoy and use the premises quietly and without disturbance,” states US Legal’s website.
For more data protection laws and tips, visit the Safewise website.
