Tennessee’s rental laws have undergone several updates in 2025, impacting both landlords and tenants. Whether you’re renting an apartment in Nashville or a house in Memphis, understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential.
This guide explores legal limits on rent, eviction protections, security deposit rules, and other key tenant protections under Tennessee law.
Rent Control and Increases
Unlike some states, Tennessee does not have rent control laws, meaning landlords can set rental prices at their discretion. However, they must adhere to lease agreements, and any increase must comply with the following regulations:
- Rent increases can only occur at the end of a lease term unless specified otherwise.
- A minimum 30-day written notice is required for month-to-month tenants before any rent hike.
- Discriminatory or retaliatory rent increases are prohibited under the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA).
Security Deposit Regulations
Security deposits serve as financial protection for landlords but must follow specific legal guidelines:
- There is no statewide cap on security deposits, but they must be reasonable.
- Landlords must provide a written notice of deductions if they retain part of the deposit.
- The deposit must be returned within 30 days of lease termination if no damages exist.
- Tenants have the right to be present during the final property inspection.
Tenant Privacy Rights and Entry Laws
Tennessee law protects a tenant’s right to privacy, and landlords must follow entry regulations:
- A landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the rental unit, except in emergencies.
- Entry must be during reasonable hours, typically between 8 AM and 8 PM.
- Tenants can refuse entry if proper notice is not given, unless it is an emergency or specified in the lease.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Protections
Evictions in Tennessee follow strict legal procedures to prevent unlawful removals:
- Nonpayment of Rent: Landlords must give a 14-day written notice before filing for eviction if rent is unpaid.
- Lease Violations: A 14-day cure period is provided for most lease violations before eviction proceedings can begin.
- Unlawful Evictions: Self-help evictions, such as changing locks or shutting off utilities, are illegal.
- Retaliatory Evictions: Landlords cannot evict tenants for reporting housing violations or requesting necessary repairs.
Repairs and Maintenance Responsibilities
Landlords must maintain rental properties in habitable conditions. If they fail to do so, tenants have legal options:
- Landlords must keep electrical, plumbing, heating, and cooling systems in working order.
- Tenants can submit written repair requests, and landlords must respond within 14 days.
- If repairs are not made, tenants may withhold rent or make necessary repairs and deduct the cost from rent (with proper documentation).
Lease Agreements and Termination Rules
Lease agreements outline the rights and responsibilities of both parties:
- Written leases are required for agreements longer than one year.
- Early termination clauses must be clearly stated, including penalties or fees.
- Military members and victims of domestic violence may terminate leases without penalty under state and federal protections.
Conclusion
Tennessee’s rental laws in 2025 provide clear guidelines for both landlords and tenants. Understanding these regulations ensures fair treatment and legal protection. Whether dealing with rent increases, security deposits, evictions, or privacy rights, tenants should stay informed to navigate rental agreements confidently. If disputes arise, seeking legal advice or contacting the Tennessee Housing Development Agency can help ensure compliance with state laws.
