What Other Types Of Deposits May Be Required By The Landlord?

In addition to the security deposit, the landlord may require an application fee, cleaning fee, pet deposit and an advance rent deposit. Before paying any of these deposits or fees a tenant should get in writing what the payment is for and under what terms the payment will be refunded. Refundable pet deposits and advance rent deposits are considered a security deposit under the Georgia law. Application fees or deposits to hold an apartment until you actually sign a lease are not considered security deposits under Georgia law and are usually not refundable, should you choose not to move into the unit. You should ask if the holding deposit or application fee will be applied to your first months rent or security deposit if you sign a lease and move in. Always get a receipt for any deposit or fee that you pay. If the fee is refundable, ask the landlord to put this information on the receipt.