Tennessee Tenant Rights
Nashville is one of the fastest-growing rental markets. Tennessee is moderately landlord-friendly.
Security Deposit
- Maximum allowed
- No statutory limit
- Return deadline
- 30 days (or 10 days for check itemization)
- Itemized deductions required
- Yes
Landlord Entry
- Notice required
- No statutory requirement
- Emergency exception
- Yes — landlord may enter without notice in genuine emergencies
Notice to Vacate
- Month-to-month
- 30 days
- Fixed-term lease
- No notice required — ends automatically
Rent Control
- Statewide rent control
- No
- Local ordinances allowed
- No
- Details
- Tennessee prohibits local rent control ordinances.
Late Fees & Grace Period
- Grace period
- 5 days
- Late fee limit
- 10% of rent due
Early Lease Termination
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence. Limited other protections. Landlord must mitigate.
Key Statutes & Laws
- Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (TCA § 66-28-101 et seq.)
Frequently Asked Questions — Tennessee Tenant Rights
What is the security deposit limit in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the security deposit limit is No statutory limit. Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days (or 10 days for check itemization).
How much notice must a Tennessee landlord give before entering?
Tennessee requires No statutory requirement before landlord entry. Emergencies are exempt from notice requirements.
Does Tennessee have rent control?
Tennessee prohibits local rent control ordinances.
Can I break my lease early in Tennessee?
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence. Limited other protections. Landlord must mitigate.
What is the late fee grace period in Tennessee?
5 days. Late fee limit: 10% of rent due.
Got a Tennessee lease?
Our AI cross-references your specific lease clauses against Tennessee tenant protection laws — flagging violations, missing protections, and negotiation opportunities.
Review My Lease — $9.99No account needed · Results in ~2 minutes · Not legal advice
This guide provides general information about Tennessee tenant rights and is not legal advice. Laws change — always verify current statutes with your local tenant rights organization or a licensed attorney. Last updated March 2026.