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Tennessee Landlord-Tenant Laws

Tennessee has no statutory cap on security deposits, but deposits must be held in a separate account and returned within 30 days of move-out (60 days if the tenant never responds to the inspection/refund notice). Landlords must give reasonable notice before entry, and month-to-month tenancies end on 30 days' written notice.

Informational summary, not legal advice. Landlord-tenant law changes and local ordinances may add requirements. Verify the current statute (Tenn. Code Ann. 66-28 (Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act)) or consult a licensed Tennessee attorney before acting. All rentals must also comply with the federal Fair Housing Act — you may not select tenants or write listings based on a protected class.

Key Tennessee rental rules at a glance

Security deposit limitNo statutory limit
Deposit return deadline30 days (60 days if tenant does not respond)
Landlord entry noticeReasonable notice (commonly cited as 24 hours)
Month-to-month termination notice30 days
Governing statuteTenn. Code Ann. 66-28 (Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act)

Tennessee rental law — common questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Tennessee?

No statutory limit. This is a general summary of Tenn. Code Ann. 66-28 (Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act); verify the current statute or consult a Tennessee attorney, as rules change and local ordinances may add requirements.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Tennessee?

30 days (60 days if tenant does not respond) after the tenant moves out, per Tenn. Code Ann. 66-28 (Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act) (general summary — confirm the current deadline).

How much notice must a Tennessee landlord give before entering?

Reasonable notice (commonly cited as 24 hours). Always check the lease and the current statute; this is informational only, not legal advice.

How much notice ends a month-to-month tenancy in Tennessee?

30 days. Notice rules vary by situation — verify the current Tennessee statute or consult an attorney.

Renting out a property in Tennessee?

List for rent by owner with a flat-fee listing, screen applicants fairly, and reach renters directly. Our For Rent By Owner guide walks through pricing, marketing, lawful screening, and the lease.

List your rental →For Rent By Owner guideTennessee rentals

Rental laws in other states

ListMyHomes.com is a licensed brokerage that acts only as a neutral facilitator. This page is general educational information, not legal advice, and may not reflect the most recent changes or local ordinances. Always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney for your situation.