What documents or proof do I need to give to my landlord to get out of my lease if I am a victim?
When a civil or criminal family violence protection order or stalking protection order has been issued, you can end your lease by giving your landlord the following things:
- a written notice of termination. The notice should include:
- the fact you are ending (terminating) your lease based on the fact that you or your minor child is a victim of family violence or stalking; and
- the end date for your lease. The end date has to be 30 days away – it cannot be earlier than that;1 and
- a copy of:
- your family violence protection order or stalking protection order; and
- a copy of the police report if your order is an ex parte, temporary order.2
1 Ga. Code § 44-7-23(b)
2 Ga. Code § 44-7-23(c)
Am I still responsible for rent after I give my landlord notice?
For a place in which you currently live: After you give notice to your landlord, you are still responsible for any rent due up until the date your lease ends and for any late or unpaid rent. You are not responsible for any other rent, fees, or damages for ending your lease.1
For a place that you have not yet moved into: If you sign a lease but then you need to terminate it due to family violence or stalking, if you give your landlord the notice of termination at least 14 days before your lease is scheduled to begin, you cannot be charged any kind of money damages or penalties.1
1 Ga. Code § 44-7-23(d)