Does Tennessee cap security deposits?

No. Tennessee has no statutory limit on security deposits. Deposits must be returned within 30 days of move-out with an itemized written statement.

Does the Tennessee URLTA apply everywhere?

No. The Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-101) applies only in counties with a population over 75,000. Smaller counties are governed by common law and older statutes, with fewer tenant protections.

Does Tennessee have rent control?

No. Tennessee state law explicitly prohibits local governments from enacting rent control ordinances.

Tennessee • Updated 2025

Tennessee Lease Agreement Template

Free, state-specific lease agreement template fully compliant with Tennessee law. Download instantly in PDF or Word format — no email required.

Lease Agreements in Tennessee

Tennessee landlord-tenant law is governed by Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-101 et seq. (Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act — applicable in counties with population over 75,000). Tennessee has no cap on security deposits, which must be returned within 30 days. Tennessee has no rent control — state law preempts local ordinances. Evictions begin with a 14-day pay-or-quit notice for non-payment.

Tennessee Lease Agreement Key Facts

Security Deposit Limit

No statutory cap

Deposit Return Deadline

30 days after move-out

Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month

30 days

Eviction Notice (Non-Payment)

14-Day Notice

Rent Control

Prohibited by state law

Governing Law

Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-101

Tennessee Legal Requirements

✓Security deposits must be returned within 30 days with itemized deductions.
✓Lead paint disclosure required for pre-1978 properties.
✓Landlords must give reasonable advance notice before entry.
✓Landlords must maintain the property in habitable condition per local codes.

Tennessee Governing Laws

Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-301

Security Deposits

Requires return within 30 days of move-out with a written itemized statement of deductions.

Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-505

Eviction for Non-Payment

Requires 14-day written notice to pay or vacate before landlord may file a detainer warrant.

Tennessee Lease Agreement — FAQ

Legal Disclaimer

This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws may have changed — consult a licensed Tennessee attorney for complex situations.