Dozens of apartment residents in College Park, Georgia, are in a bind after receiving a notice telling them their leases were being terminated to make way for "major repairs" to the complex.
Tenants at first were given 60 days to vacate their unit, but some say they received a follow-up letter giving them much less time.
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"You told me 60 days, now you’re telling me three?" Keneidra Johnson told Fox 5 Atlanta in a story published April 10. "It’s just a hot mess."
But is it within a landlord’s rights to move up the deadline? What about the tenants’ rights? Here are the details behind the story.
A terrible situation
Residents of Chelsea Gardens Apartments say the complex is in disarray — it’s falling apart and infested with rats.
According to Fox 5 Atlanta, tenants originally received a letter stating their leases were being terminated on May 11. The letter read: "The difficult decision has been made due to the necessity of undertaking major repairs and renovations throughout the property."
But on April 9, some residents received another letter saying that because they had an outstanding balance they had to leave within three days, reports the local broadcaster. Residents said their water had also been shut off.
Michael Lucas, director of the Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation, was asked by Fox 5 Atlanta if such actions were legal.
"The landlord still has to take the tenant to court, and they do not have to leave until the landlord has gone all the way through that process," he said. He added that tenants "should absolutely find out more about their rights."
The broadcaster says it was unable to reach the Chelsea Gardens leasing office or the property’s listed attorney for comment.
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Tenant protection laws
If you’re a renter, it’s important to know what rights you have, especially if you end up in a situation where you’re suddenly being forced out of your home. Tenancy laws vary by state.
In Georgia, landlords generally have to give tenants 60 days of written notice if they want to terminate a lease. In cases of nonpayment of rent or lease violations, landlords can give tenants up to three days to comply — after which they can file for eviction in court. A tenant doesn’t have to leave until this process is completed.
If you feel your rights as a tenant have been violated, it’s important to take action. First, make sure you’re documenting all issues and all communication with your landlord. It’s best to try to have written communication with your landlord so there’s a trail.
You can also try contacting an attorney for guidance. You may be able to file a complaint against your landlord if they’re violating your rights or trying to force you out of your home.
Keep in mind that a landlord can violate your rights as a tenant by failing to provide you with a safe home. Under Georgia’s Safe at Home Act, as of July 1, 2024, if you enter into a new or renew your lease, you have the right to a home that’s safe and habitable with functioning utilities. Consider speaking up or seeking legal recourse if your home feels unsafe in any way.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
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