STOP! 5 Illegal Eviction Mistakes Georgia Landlords Make That Cost Thousands

Managing rental properties becomes especially challenging when tenants stop paying rent. Before taking action, Georgia landlords need to understand the serious legal pitfalls that await those who don't follow proper eviction procedures. One misstep can lead to thousands in fines, legal fees, and damages – turning a bad situation into a financial disaster.

At Aegis Locksmith Services, we've witnessed countless landlords struggle through the complex eviction process. That's why beyond our professional lock change services, we've built relationships with trusted eviction attorneys, property cleanout specialists, and repair professionals throughout Atlanta. Understanding these common illegal mistakes is your first step toward a smoother, legally compliant eviction process.

Let's examine the five most costly errors landlords make during evictions – and how having the right connections can help you avoid them.

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Eviction Locksmith Services

1. "Self-Help" Evictions: The $10,000+ Mistake

Under Georgia Code § 44-7-14.1, landlords are strictly prohibited from attempting to remove tenants without going through proper legal channels.

Illegal actions that courts consistently penalize include:

• Changing locks while the tenant still has legal possession

• Removing tenant belongings from the property

• Shutting off utilities (water, electricity, gas, etc.)

• Removing doors, windows, or essential appliances

• Using intimidation or harassment to force tenants to leave
  

Real consequences: Georgia courts regularly award damages including:

• The tenant's complete legal fees (typically $1,500-$5,000)

• Compensatory damages (often 2-3 times monthly rent)

• Additional punitive damages in egregious cases
  

2. Improper Eviction Notice: The Process-Killing Error

Many evictions fail because landlords don't properly initiate the process. Georgia law requires specific procedures for notices.

Common notice mistakes include:

• Failing to provide written demand for payment before filing

• Not specifying the exact amount owed with an accurate breakdown

• Improper delivery methods (posting notices incorrectly)

• Insufficient time given before proceeding to the next step

• Incorrect tenant names or property details on documentation
  

Real consequences: These errors typically result in:

• Case dismissal requiring restart of the entire process

• Additional 3-8 weeks of lost rental income

• Court costs for both the failed and new filings
  

3. Accepting Partial Payment After Filing: The Process Reset

Once you've filed for eviction, accepting any payment from the tenant—even a small portion of what's owed—can legally invalidate your eviction filing in many circumstances.

Real consequences:

• Courts may dismiss your case entirely

• The eviction process must restart from the beginning

• Additional 30-45 days of lost rental income

• Repeated filing fees and legal costs
  

4. Mishandling Security Deposits During Eviction

Georgia's security deposit law (O.C.G.A. § 44-7-30 through 44-7-37) remains in effect during evictions and carries strict requirements.

Common security deposit violations:

• Automatically applying deposits to unpaid rent without proper accounting

• Failing to provide itemized deductions within 30 days of possession

• Deducting for normal wear and tear
  

Real consequences:

• Penalties of up to three times the improperly withheld amount

• Additional legal fees and court costs

• Potential countersuit that complicates your eviction case
  

5. Ignoring Property Abandonment Procedures

When tenants appear to abandon the property during the eviction process, landlords must still follow specific legal procedures before reclaiming possession.

Real consequences:

• Liability for missing or damaged tenant property

• Legal claims for illegal eviction despite abandonment

• Complications with subsequent tenants if the original tenant returns
  

How Aegis Locksmith Services Makes Your Eviction Process Smooth and Legal

At Aegis Locksmith Services, we've built a comprehensive network of eviction professionals to help property owners avoid these costly mistakes. Our connections and services ensure your eviction process is legally compliant, efficient, and stress-free.

Our Trusted Attorney Referral Network

We maintain relationships with experienced eviction attorneys throughout the Atlanta metro area who:

• Specialize in Georgia landlord-tenant law

• Have proven track records of successful evictions

• Can handle the entire legal process from notice to writ execution

• Offer priority scheduling for our clients
  

When you contact us about an eviction situation, we'll connect you with an attorney who can guide you through the proper legal process, helping you avoid all the mistakes outlined above.

Professional Eviction Locksmith Services

Once your attorney has secured a writ of possession and scheduled the sheriff, our technicians will:

• Coordinate directly with law enforcement for proper timing

• Arrive promptly at the scheduled eviction time

• Professionally change all locks after the sheriff has removed the tenant

• Provide high-security lock options to prevent unauthorized re-entry

• Document all work performed for your legal protection
  

Complete Property Service Connections

Our trusted network includes:

• Professional cleaning services to prepare the property for new tenants

• Junk removal specialists to clear abandoned belongings (following legal protocols)

• Repair contractors to address any property damage

• Security system installers to protect your investment
  

The Aegis Advantage: One Call Connects You With Everything You Need

When you work with Aegis Locksmith Services for your eviction needs, you benefit from:

• Single Point of Contact: One call connects you with attorneys, locksmiths, and property services

• Streamlined Process: We coordinate between all service providers

• Legal Protection: Our network ensures all steps are legally compliant

• Faster Resolution: Professional handling reduces delays and complications

• Reduced Stress: Let experts handle the complex eviction process
  

Take the First Step Toward a Smooth, Legal Eviction

Don't risk costly legal mistakes or unnecessary delays. Contact Aegis Locksmith Services at 470-756-0417 today (call or text) or email us info@aegislocksmithservices.com to discuss your situation and get connected with our trusted eviction attorney network. When the time comes for legal lock changes, our professional technicians will be ready to secure your property properly.

While this article provides general information about eviction procedures, for specific legal advice on your situation, we recommend consulting with a qualified attorney through our referral network.