New rental law empowers tenants to repair defects and protect rental rights

On March 28, 2025, the Georgia House of Representatives introduced House Bill 876, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing tenant rights and responsibilities in residential rental agreements. The bill seeks to address issues related to the maintenance of rental properties and the rights of tenants when faced with material defects in their living conditions.

The main provisions of House Bill 876 include a framework for tenants to undertake repairs for material defects affecting their units, with the ability to deduct repair costs from their rent, capped at 50 percent of any rental installment. This provision is designed to empower tenants to ensure their living conditions meet acceptable standards while also placing a responsibility on landlords to address maintenance issues promptly. If a landlord fails to repair a defect within 60 days of receiving written notice, tenants may terminate their lease after providing an additional 30 days' notice, provided they have not already made the repairs themselves.

Another critical aspect of the bill is the protection it offers tenants against retaliatory actions from landlords. It explicitly prohibits landlords from terminating or refusing to renew rental agreements based on a tenant's exercise of their rights under this legislation. Should a landlord violate this provision, tenants are granted the right to pursue civil action.

House Bill 876 is set to apply to all residential rental agreements entered into on or after July 1, 2025, including any renewals or modifications. This timeline allows landlords and tenants to prepare for the new regulations.

The introduction of this bill has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers, tenant advocacy groups, and landlord associations. Proponents argue that it is a necessary step toward ensuring safe and habitable living conditions for tenants, while opponents express concerns about the potential financial burden on landlords and the implications for rental markets.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications could significantly reshape the landlord-tenant relationship in Georgia, potentially leading to increased accountability for property owners and enhanced protections for renters. The outcome of House Bill 876 will be closely monitored as it moves forward, with potential ramifications for housing stability and tenant rights across the state.