Tennessee Security Deposit Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 11, 2019
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A security deposit is a sum of money (usually one-months' rent) separate from the advance rent payments that a new tenant pays to the landlord. The security deposit serves to limit the financial loss to a landlord if a tenant breaks the lease and moves out early or damages property beyond normal wear and tear. The rules surrounding security deposits vary by state. Unlike some states, Tennessee has no statutory limits as to what a landlord can charge a tenant for a security deposit.
Summary of Tennessee Security Deposit Laws
Security deposit laws are determined by the jurisdiction of the state where the property is located. Because local and county laws may differ, be sure to check out the relevant laws for your area. For a plain English summary of statewide laws, check out the chart below.
Statutes |
Tennessee Code Title 66. Property: |
Landlord Duties
|
Storage of the Security Deposit A landlord must deposit a tenant's security deposit in a separate account. The account must be in a financial institution that's subject to government regulations or Tennessee state regulations, but the account doesn't have to earn interest. If a landlord doesn't store a tenant's deposit in an account properly, the landlord can't keep any portion of the tenant's security deposit. Written Notice The landlord must notify the tenant in writing that the security deposit has been placed in a separate account. The landlord must include the location of the security, but they aren't required to provide the tenant with the account number. |
Walk-Through Inspection |
Tennessee requires landlords and tenants to complete a walk-through inspection to document any property damage:
Tenant Present for Inspection
Tenant No-show for Inspection If the tenant has an inspection time with the landlord, but fails to show, the tenant loses the right to contest any damages the landlord lists in the inspection report. |
Deadline for the Return of the Security Deposit |
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Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Tennessee Security Deposit Laws: Related Resources
- Security Deposit FAQ
- The Difference Between Last Month's Rent and a Security Deposit
- Security Deposit Laws Can Help Get Your Deposit Back
- What Can a Landlord Deduct from a Security Deposit for Cleaning and Repairs?
Questions About Tennessee Security Deposit Laws? Ask an Attorney
If you're a tenant whose landlord hasn't returned your security deposit or you need help with another matter, you should talk to a professional familiar with Tennessee security deposit laws. Contact a Tennessee landlord-tenant attorney near you to get answers to your landlord/tenant questions.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.
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