Protecting Renters, Strengthening Sandy Springs
Nearly Half of Sandy Springs Households Are Renters
When people think of Sandy Springs, they often picture homeowners. But the truth is that nearly half of all households in our city are renters. That means renters are not a side story — they are central to the future of Sandy Springs.
Among households earning under 80% of the Area Median Income, an incredible 77% are renters. That’s teachers, firefighters, young families, and seniors — all people who deserve fairness, transparency, and safe housing.
What Renters Face Today
Too often, renters encounter hidden fees, surprise costs, and landlords who delay making repairs to keep apartments safe and livable. From application fees to “admin” charges, parking add-ons, and maintenance fees, renters can be blindsided after signing a lease.
This isn’t just a Sandy Springs problem. Across the South, renters are fighting for fair treatment:
In Atlanta’s metro area, more than 40% of households rent, showing that affordability is a regional challenge.
In South Carolina, state law already protects tenants from landlord retaliation when they report unsafe conditions — a model we can learn from here.
My Plan to Protect Renters
When I’m Mayor, we’ll make it clear: Renters deserve transparency and safety.
Mandatory Fee Transparency
Every lease must spell out every single fee — application fees, parking, utilities, late fees, move-out charges, you name it. No surprises. No hidden costs.Safe & Livable Apartments
We’ll enforce Georgia’s new “Safe at Home Act” with stronger local inspections. Landlords will be held accountable for providing working plumbing, air conditioning, pest-free housing, and safe living conditions.Security Deposit Protections
Deposits must be handled fairly. That means written move-in checklists, itemized deductions, and money returned promptly when a tenant leaves.Anti-Harassment Rules
Tenants shouldn’t fear eviction or intimidation just for asking for repairs. We’ll put penalties in place for landlords who retaliate against renters.Tenant Education
Every renter will receive a Tenant Rights Summary with their lease, so they know their rights from day one.
Why This Matters
This isn’t about dividing homeowners and renters. It’s about fairness. If nearly half of Sandy Springs rents their homes, then protecting renters isn’t optional — it’s essential.
When families know their housing is safe and their lease is transparent, they can focus on what really matters: raising their kids, building careers, and being part of a thriving community.
That’s the Sandy Springs I’m fighting for — a city where everyone, homeowner or renter, has the dignity of a safe, fair place to live.
