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FreeNetLaw Consumer Legal Reference

Tenant Rights in Tennessee

A comprehensive guide to your rights as a renter in Tennessee. Covers security deposits, eviction procedures, rent control, repair obligations, and when to get legal help.

Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026

Key Takeaways

  • Security deposit max: No statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount..
  • Return deadline: 30 days after the tenancy ends (no deductions) or 60 days (if deductions are made)..
  • Rent control: No.
  • Repair and deduct: Not allowed.
No statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount. Security deposit maximum
30 days after the tenancy ends (no deductions) or 60 days (if deductions are made). Deposit return deadline
No Statewide rent control
Required Judicial eviction

Security Deposits

  • Maximum amountNo statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount.
  • Return deadline30 days after the tenancy ends (no deductions) or 60 days (if deductions are made).

Landlord may deduct for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other charges under the lease. Must provide an itemized list of deductions if any portion is withheld.

Eviction Process

  • Notice requirements14-day notice for nonpayment of rent (grace period). 14-day notice for lease violations (with opportunity to cure for the first violation). 30-day notice for month-to-month tenancy termination.
  • Judicial eviction requiredYes
  • Estimated timeline2 to 4 weeks for uncontested cases through general sessions court.

Rent Control

Tennessee law (Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-35-102) prohibits local governments from enacting rent control.

Repair and Habitability

  • Repair and deductNot allowed
  • Rent withholdingNot allowed
  • Retaliation protectionYes

Lease Termination

  • Month-to-month notice30 days' written notice by either party.

Tenant may be liable for remaining rent. Landlord must make reasonable efforts to re-rent. Military members may terminate under the SCRA. Domestic violence victims may terminate early with 30 days' notice under Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-517.

Key Statutes

  • Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 66-28-101 to 66-28-521
  • Security Deposits: Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-301
  • Landlord Obligations: Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-304
  • Retaliation: Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-514
  • Rent Control Preemption: Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-35-102

When to Get Legal Help

  • You're facing eviction, especially with short notice
  • Your landlord is withholding a large security deposit
  • You believe you're being discriminated against
  • Your unit has serious habitability issues the landlord refuses to fix

Find free legal aid in Tennessee

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is there a security deposit limit in Tennessee?

    No. Tennessee has no statutory cap on security deposits. The deposit must be returned within 30 days if no deductions are made, or 60 days with an itemized list of deductions.

  • Can a tenant withhold rent for repairs in Tennessee?

    No. Tennessee does not provide a statutory repair-and-deduct or rent withholding remedy. Tenants should contact local code enforcement or seek legal action if the landlord fails to maintain habitable conditions.

  • How much notice does a landlord need to evict for nonpayment in Tennessee?

    A landlord must give a 14-day notice for nonpayment of rent. If the tenant does not pay within the 14-day period, the landlord can file an eviction action in general sessions court.

  • Does Tennessee have rent control?

    No. Tennessee law explicitly prohibits local governments from enacting rent control ordinances under Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-35-102.

Legal Disclaimer: FreeNetLaw provides general legal information, not legal advice. The information on this site is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify information with official sources and consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.

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