Landlord’s duties as to utilities

(a) As used in this Code section, the term ‘‘utilities’’ means heat, light, and water service. (b) It shall be unlawful for any landlord knowingly and willfully to suspend the furnishing of utilities to a tenant until after the final disposition of any dispossessory proceeding by the landlord against such tenant. (c) Any person who violates subsection (b) of this Code section shall, upon conviction, be assessed a fine not to exceed $500.00. (Code 1981, § 44-7-14.1, enacted by Ga. L. 1988, p. 923, § 1.)