Tennessee Eviction Law at a Glance
State Statute
Tenn. Code §66-28-505 — Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Notice Periods
- Nonpayment: 14-Day Pay or Quit
- Lease violation: 14-Day Cure or Quit (30-Day if Not Cured)
- Unconditional: 14-Day Unconditional Quit (Repeat Violation)
- End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate
Available Defenses
- Habitability (Tenn. Code §66-28-304)
- Retaliation (Tenn. Code §66-28-514)
- Procedural defects
- Discrimination (Fair Housing Act)
Right to Cure
YES — Tenant has 14 days to pay past-due rent; 14 days to cure lease violations
Self-Help Eviction
PROHIBITED — Landlord must use court process (Tenn. Code §66-28-504)
Court & Filing
General Sessions Court
Landlord must file detainer action in general sessions court
Complaints: Tennessee Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
Additional Protections
- Self-help eviction prohibited
- URLTA applies in most counties
- 14-day notice period for most eviction grounds
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Tennessee Eviction Response FAQ
How many days do I have to respond to an eviction notice in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the response deadline depends on the type of eviction notice: Nonpayment: 14-Day Pay or Quit; Lease violation: 14-Day Cure or Quit (30-Day if Not Cured); Unconditional: 14-Day Unconditional Quit (Repeat Violation); End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate. Missing your deadline can result in a default judgment and forced move-out.
What defenses can I raise against eviction in Tennessee?
Available defenses in Tennessee include: Habitability (Tenn. Code §66-28-304), Retaliation (Tenn. Code §66-28-514), Procedural defects, Discrimination (Fair Housing Act). The availability depends on your specific circumstances.
Does Tennessee require landlords to give tenants a right to cure?
Yes. Tenant has 14 days to pay past-due rent; 14 days to cure lease violations
Can my landlord evict me without going to court in Tennessee?
No. Under Tenn. Code §66-28-504, self-help eviction is prohibited in Tennessee. Your landlord must file in General Sessions Court and obtain a judgment.
What should I include in an eviction response letter in Tennessee?
Your letter should: (1) identify the notice by date and type, (2) cite Tenn. Code §66-28-505, (3) assert applicable defenses, (4) demand proper legal procedure, (5) state your intent to defend in court, and (6) be sent via certified mail.
Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in Tennessee?
File complaints with the Tennessee Attorney General Consumer Protection Division and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For illegal self-help eviction, contact local law enforcement.
Eviction Response Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.