Tennessee Security Deposit Laws
Tennessee does not cap security deposits but requires landlords to return deposits within 30 days (or up to 60 days if there is a damage claim) with a written itemized statement of deductions.
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Key Rules
- Limit
- No statutory maximum
- Return Deadline
- 30 days (or 60 days if damage claim) after termination of tenancy
- Itemization Required
- Yes — written itemized statement required within 30 days
- Interest Required
- No statewide requirement
- Bad Faith Penalty
- Tenant may recover deposit amount plus attorney's fees for bad-faith withholding
Applicable Statutes
Security deposit: no statutory cap on amount. Landlord must return deposit within 30 days after tenancy ends (or within 60 days if damage claim). Must provide written itemized statement of deductions.
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.