DeKalb County, GA Rental Property Rules: Repairs & Habitability (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum heat
- 68°F, 3 ft above floor
- Minimum hot water
- 120°F at fixtures
- Required fixtures
- Toilet, sink, tub or shower
- Scope
- Unincorporated DeKalb dwellings
Summary
DeKalb County's dwelling code requires every rental to hold indoor heat to at least 68°F and hot water to 120°F, plus working toilets, sinks and bathing facilities, enforced countywide in the unincorporated area.
The heating facility shall be capable of maintaining a minimum room temperature of sixty-eight (68) degrees Fahrenheit at a point three (3) feet above the floor and two (2) feet from exterior walls in all habitable rooms and every room containing a toilet, shower or bathtub.(2)The heating facilities shall be properly installed, maintained in a safe manner, and capable of delivering heat to the dwelling as required.(3)Fuel fired heating equipment shall be connected to an approved chimney or vent.(h)Plumbing and electrical system installation and maintenance. In all dwellings, water lines, plumbing fixtures, vents, drains, stacks, waste and sewer lines shall be properly installed according to industry specifications and the Code of DeKalb County and maintained so as to function properly and shall be kept free from obstructions, leaks and defects. Electrical wiring and fixtures shall be installed, maintained and used according to industry specifications and the Code of DeKalb County and shall not be altered or allowed to deteriorate in any way that might create an unsafe condition. (Ord. No. 33-03, Pt. I, 12-23-03; Ord. No. 2023-1403, Pt. II, 2-27-24)
Full Breakdown
Sections 18-29 through 18-31 set minimum habitability standards for every dwelling in the unincorporated area: sanitary exterior and interior areas, structurally sound stairs and porches, a heating system able to hold 68 degrees Fahrenheit three feet above the floor, and water heaters delivering 120-degree water. Every unit must also have a private toilet, lavatory and bathtub or shower connected to an approved water and sewer system.
Violations & Fines
Failing to maintain required heat, hot water or sanitary facilities is enforceable by the chief of police under Chapter 18's inspection and citation authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to apartments and rooming houses too?
Who enforces these habitability standards?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in DeKalb County
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