Tennessee Eviction Laws
Tennessee has a two-tier landlord-tenant system: URLTA applies in larger counties (Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville), requiring a 14-day notice to pay or vacate for nonpayment.
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Key Rules
- Nonpayment Notice
- 14 days written notice to pay or vacate (URLTA counties)
- Periodic Tenancy Notice
- 30 days notice for month-to-month termination
- Just Cause Required
- No — no just-cause eviction requirement in Tennessee
- Rent Control
- No rent control; Tennessee preempts local rent control ordinances
- Urlta
- URLTA applies only in counties with populations over 75,000
Applicable Statutes
Noncompliance by tenant (nonpayment): landlord must deliver written notice requiring payment within 14 days or the tenancy terminates. Applies in URLTA counties.
Termination of periodic tenancy: for month-to-month, 30 days written notice required. In non-URLTA counties, older rules may apply.
Unlawful detainer (eviction): the court process for removing a tenant after proper notice. Applies statewide.
Legal Aid Resources
Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands
Middle Tennessee and Cumberland region
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.