HOA, Renters, Landlords, Squatters

HOME OWNER ASSOCIATIONS (HOA)

We do not handle concerns related to HOA covenants, by-laws, or civil disputes, such as property line disputes or property damage. 

LANDLORD / TENANT

In Georgia, there is not a government agency which can intervene in a landlord-tenant dispute or force one party to behave in a particular way. Landlords and tenants who cannot resolve a dispute need to use the courts, either directly or through a lawyer, to enforce their legal rights.

Below is a copy of the Landlord / Tenant Handbook from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.  It is helpful guide so you can know what your rights are as a tenant. Should you have questions or need legal advice, contact an attorney to obtain the proper guidance.  You can search Landlord on the Georgia Department of Community Affairs website and for further information. 

Should your issue become an environmental health concern, you can contact Public Health District 2 by clicking here.

SQUATTERS / TRESPASSERS

July 1, 2024, Georgia law makers passed a new squatters law.  It states, a person commits the offense of unlawful squatting when he or she enters upon 35 the land or premises of another and resides on such land or premises for any period of time knowingly acting without the knowledge or consent of the owner, rightful occupant, or an authorized representative of the owner. For the purposes of this law, 'resides' means to inhabit or live on or within any land or premises.

Criminal Trespassing is when person(s) enters without authority, for unlawful purposes, fails to leave upon request, or returns after leaving and being told not to return.

Please direct any matters related to criminal or traffic offenses, such as animal cruelty, trespassing, squatting, firearm discharging, noise disturbances, drug-related issues, harassment, speeding, and etc., to the Banks County Sheriff's Office.