Tennessee Repair & Habitability Laws

In URLTA counties, Tennessee requires landlords to maintain rental units in habitable condition under Tenn.

Last reviewed:

Key Rules

Repair And Deduct
Not expressly authorized by statute — tenants should seek court remedies
Rent Withholding
Tenant may terminate for material habitability breach in URLTA counties
Notice Required
Written notice to landlord required before exercising remedies
Habitability Standards
Weatherproofing, heating, plumbing, electrical, sanitary conditions (URLTA counties)
Urlta
Habitability requirements most clearly defined in URLTA counties

Applicable Statutes

Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-304

Landlord duty to maintain premises (URLTA counties): must comply with housing codes, maintain structural elements, plumbing, heating, and keep premises clean and safe.

Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-502

Remedies for landlord noncompliance: tenant may terminate for serious habitability violations or obtain court-ordered repair.

Legal Aid Resources

Memphis Area Legal Services

901-523-8822

Shelby County / Memphis area

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