Is the landlord responsible for a sewer backup in Georgia?

The landlord's duty

Georgia's Landlord-Tenant Handbook says residential landlords must keep a unit in safe, habitable condition and in good repair, including keeping electric, heating and plumbing in working order (Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook).

Give written notice

The handbook says tenants must immediately give written notice to the landlord of any problem needing repair, follow the lease's notice rules and keep a copy (Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook). The EPA also tells renters to report plumbing leaks and moisture problems right away to the building owner or manager (EPA). Add photos and the date the backup started.

If the landlord doesn't fix it

The handbook cautions that tenants generally must keep paying rent even when repairs aren't made, or the landlord can begin eviction (Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook). It describes repair-and-deduct, where a qualified, licensed professional makes the repair and the cost comes off future rent after written notice, with receipts kept; it can't be used for common areas (Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook). Tenants may also sue for damages caused by a failure to repair (Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook).

If the backup is from the city sewer

For a possible sewer spill in Atlanta, ATL311 lists 404-546-0311 (ATL311). Your landlord or their plumber can work out whether the blockage is in the building's line or the public main.

Cleanup and mold

Sewage is not a mop-and-bucket job. See sewage cleanup in Atlanta and landlord mold responsibility in Georgia on 404 Water Damage.

Common questions

Does my renters insurance cover my belongings?

Sewer backup coverage is often an add-on to homeowners and renters policies (Insurance Information Institute). Check yours.