Attention Renters: Gwinnett County Has A New Maintenance Ordinance

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Rental Property In Gwinnett County — Before You Become A Renter

Code enforcement in Gwinnett County, as it pertains to renters, encompasses a set of rules and guidelines established to guarantee that rental properties offer secure and suitable living environments. These regulations serve the dual purpose of safeguarding tenants’ rights and welfare while also upholding the overall housing quality within the county.

It’s important for renters to have a clear understanding of several essential facets of Gwinnett County’s code enforcement.

Housing Standards For Renters: Gwinnett County enforces specific housing standards that landlords must adhere to. These standards encompass structural integrity, sanitation, utilities, and safety features, such as smoke detectors and proper electrical wiring.
Property Maintenance For Renters: Landlords are responsible for maintaining their rental properties, including repairing structural damage, addressing plumbing and electrical issues, and maintaining common areas.
Tenant Rights For Renters: Renters have rights under the law, including the right to a safe and habitable dwelling. They should report any code violations to the appropriate authorities.
Reporting Violations: If a tenant suspects a code violation, they should report it to the local code enforcement agency. Gwinnett County typically has a dedicated department or office for this purpose.
Inspections: Code enforcement officials may conduct regular inspections or investigate reported violations. Landlords must cooperate with these inspections.
Enforcement Actions: If a violation is found, the county may take enforcement actions, including issuing fines or requiring repairs within a specific timeframe.

Understanding and following code enforcement regulations in Gwinnett County is essential for both landlords and tenants to ensure safe and comfortable living conditions. Renters should not hesitate to report any concerns they have regarding the maintenance and safety of their rental property to the appropriate authorities.

Before You Start Your Renters Search Read This

The search for a new rental unit can be exciting yet daunting, and you may find yourself torn between the convenience of virtual tours and the importance of physically visiting the property. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations to help you make the best-informed decision when looking for your next rental home.

The Power of a Personal Visit

1. Assessing Common Area Maintenance

When you step into a rental property, the first thing you should pay attention to is the condition of common areas. Clean and well-maintained common areas indicate a well-managed property. Look for issues like cleanliness, lighting, and the overall ambiance.

2. Noise Rules and Management Professionalism

While a virtual tour can showcase the property’s aesthetics, it can’t reveal the enforcement of noise rules or the professionalism of the management staff. Remember, the friendly sales staff might not be the same individuals handling resident issues. During your visit, take note of how responsive and professional the management team is.

3. The Pitfalls of Online Reviews

Online reviews can provide valuable insights, but be cautious. Reviews may be biased, written by angry residents, or even by competing apartment communities’ staff. Use them as a general guide but don’t solely rely on them.

4. Day and Evening Visits

Consider visiting your prospective rental during both the day and evening. This will give you a better understanding of the apartment community and its neighborhood. It’s crucial to gauge how the environment changes at different times.

Lease Evaluation

5. Pre-lease Checklist

Before signing a lease, ask for a copy to review its terms carefully. Look for critical issues such as early move-out fees, non-refundable fees, pet policies, and community rules. Always prioritize the written contract over verbal agreements.

6. Documenting Move-In Condition

When you move in, you’ll receive a list of damaged items in the unit. Do not sign it until you’ve inspected the unit thoroughly and added any additional damages you find. Taking photos before moving in is a smart move to have photographic evidence.

Resolving Issues

7. Communicate in Writing

If you encounter problems with the management, always communicate in writing. Keep copies of your correspondence as evidence. Polite and well-documented communication can be essential if disputes arise.

8. Manager’s Responsibility for Repairs

Managers are responsible for making repairs to maintain the unit’s habitability and comply with building health and safety laws. They must be notified of problems and given reasonable time to fix them. If they fail to do so, residents may be able to move out without paying remaining rent.

9. Resident-Caused Damages

Damages caused by residents or their guests are not the owner’s responsibility. If the manager doesn’t make repairs promptly, residents can hire a professional contractor but need to be cautious about potential liabilities.

Rent Payment

10. The Importance of Paying Rent

Paying rent is crucial, as failure to do so can lead to eviction. If you have co-signed with roommates, you may be responsible for the full rent if they don’t pay their share.

11. Legal Procedures for Eviction

Managers must follow legal procedures, including providing notice of late payment, filing a court action, obtaining a court order, and involving the sheriff in the eviction process.

Moving Out

12. Lease End and Termination

Your lease will typically end as specified in the contract. If there’s no lease contract, it may terminate 60 days after the manager provides notice. Violations of lease terms can also lead to termination.

13. Inspection and Deposit Return

After you move out, managers have three days to inspect and provide a list of damages. Residents have five days to review and sign it. Deposits can be withheld for damages, unpaid rent, or utilities, but not for ordinary wear and tear.

14. Photographic Documentation

To prevent disputes, take photos of the unit just before moving out, ensuring they include date and time stamps.

Fair Housing

15. Fair Housing Laws

Federal laws prohibit housing discrimination based on race, color, nationality, religion, gender, disability, or familial status. Residents with disabilities have rights to request reasonable exceptions and modifications to their units.

Georgia Resources

For further guidance, refer to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs Landlord-Tenant Handbook and the UGA Extension website for additional housing-related information.

In conclusion, choosing the right rental property is a significant decision. By balancing virtual tours and in-person visits and being aware of your rights and responsibilities, you can make a well-informed choice, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable living experience.

FAQs

1. Should I solely rely on online reviews when choosing a rental property?

Online reviews can be helpful, but it’s essential to verify the information through in-person visits and lease evaluations to make a well-informed decision.

2. What should I do if I encounter issues with my rental unit’s management?

Always communicate in writing, keep copies of your correspondence, and remain polite and professional in your interactions.

3. Can managers withhold my security deposit for normal wear and tear?

No, security deposits should not be withheld for ordinary wear and tear. It should only be used for damages, unpaid rent, or utilities.

4. What are my rights as a resident with disabilities when it comes to housing?

Residents with disabilities have the right to request reasonable exceptions and modifications, but they may be responsible for the costs.

5. Where can I find more information about renting in Georgia?

Visit the Georgia Department of Community Affairs Landlord-Tenant Handbook for comprehensive guidance on renting in Georgia. Additionally, you can explore housing-related topics on the UGA Extension website.