The landlord-tenant laws of Georgia states that the landlord must return security tenant's security deposit within 30 days from the time the tenancy ended or surrendering and acceptance of the rental premise. The landlord is only allowed to use the security deposit to settle unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear and other costs incurred from breach of contract. If the landlord withholds your security deposit for substantial damages, they must furnish the tenant with an itemized list of all deducted costs including the receipts as proof within the statutory time and the remaining balance. Failure to do this is a violation of the landlord-tenant laws and you can sue the landlord in a small claims court in Georgia where they are liable to pay triple the amount withheld unless it is clear that they held the security deposit was withheld mistakenly.
However, settling the matter out of court is the best approach which can be done by simply documenting and sending a simple yet effective security deposit request letter. It is not a legal requirement but a way to avoid the lengthy court procedures and in most instances, it has been the ultimate solution for settling and getting the landlord to promptly pay back your security deposit. This Security Deposit Request Letter professionally addresses your desires while also highlighting the legal gravity of the matter. It is recommended that you send this letter through certified mail to guarantee it's delivered, and to keep a copy for yourself.