The law in plain English
Return deadline
Under Ga. Code Sections 44-7-30 to 44-7-37, the deposit response usually has to be sent within 30 days of the move-out timeline described by the state rule.
Required notice
Georgia generally requires the move-out inspection record, itemized deductions, and any refund to be handled within 30 days.
This dispute type
In Georgia, renters usually challenge deposit deductions for scuffs, faded paint, flattened carpet, and similar aging because those issues look more like ordinary use than repairable damage. The statute still controls when the refund had to be sent and how deductions had to be explained.
Penalty leverage
If the withholding was wrongful or in bad faith, the exposure allowed under the statute is: Bad faith: you can recover up to three times (3x) the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney's fees