Can my landlord charge me for trash removal even if it's not in the lease?

If your lease does not specify responsibility for trash services, your landlord typically cannot charge you separately. Always review your lease.

Who enforces tenant utility rights in Tennessee?

General Sessions Courts handle disputes, and the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance assists with consumer complaints.

Are landlords allowed to mark up trash or recycling charges?

Landlords can only impose extra fees for trash or recycling if it is clearly disclosed in your lease agreement.

Can my landlord disconnect trash services if I don't pay?

Landlords cannot cut off essential services as retaliation, but repeated non-payment may lead to lease enforcement or eviction steps.

What should I do if my landlord charges more than the city rate?

Request a written breakdown and consult your local solid waste department. If needed, escalate to consumer protection or court.

Can Landlords Bill for Trash & Recycling in Tennessee?

Utilities, Services & Billing Tennessee published June 21, 2025

If you're renting in Tennessee, understanding who pays for trash and recycling services can help you manage your monthly budget and avoid surprises in your utility bills. Laws about charging renters for waste services often vary from state to state, so it's important to know your rights under Tennessee law before you sign a lease or question a landlord's charges.

Trash and Recycling Charges: What Does Tennessee Law Say?

Generally, Tennessee state law allows for landlords and tenants to set terms for who pays for utilities, including trash and recycling, in the rental agreement. There is no Tennessee law specifically prohibiting landlords from charging tenants for trash services, as long as these charges are clearly disclosed in the lease agreement. This means the responsibility for trash collection fees and recycling is primarily determined by what is written in your lease.^[1]

Required Disclosure in Lease Agreements

Under the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), landlords must outline all charges and fees in the lease, including who is responsible for specific utilities. If trash or recycling charges are not mentioned in your agreement, it's a good idea to ask your landlord for clarification before you sign.

Look for a clause in your lease labeled "Utilities" or "Additional Fees"
If charges are included in rent, the amount should be stated clearly
If you are billed separately for trash or recycling, it should specify how and when

Can Landlords Mark Up Trash or Recycling Fees?

Landlords can pass along the cost of trash and recycling services, but in Tennessee, any additional fees or markups must be disclosed in the lease. If your landlord charges you more than the actual cost of service, this needs to be transparent in your rental agreement.

Are There Local or City-Specific Rules?

Some Tennessee cities or counties may provide trash collection as part of property taxes or as a municipal service. If this is the case, your landlord may not have the right to charge you extra. Always check with your local solid waste department for details about your area.

If you're ever unsure about your responsibility for trash or recycling fees, ask for a written breakdown and review your lease closely before paying.

What to Do If You Disagree With Charges

If you feel your landlord is unfairly charging you for trash or recycling:

Review your lease agreement for utility fee terms
Request an itemized statement of charges from your landlord
Contact your local housing authority or the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance Consumer Affairs if you suspect unlawful billing

How to File a Complaint

If you cannot resolve the issue directly with your landlord, you may file a complaint with the Tennessee Consumer Affairs Division. Residential tenancy issues may also be heard in your local General Sessions Court, which acts as the main venue for landlord-tenant disputes in Tennessee.

Official Forms for Renters

Notice of Complaint to Landlord (No official state form; written notice recommended): If you wish to dispute a charge, provide written notice to your landlord stating your concern and requesting a resolution. Keep a copy for your records. There is no official Tennessee state form for this, but you can find advice on best practices from the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.
General Sessions Court Civil Warrant (Form C-1): If you're seeking to recover funds or dispute charges in court, you will need to file a Civil Warrant in General Sessions Court.
When to use: For example, if your landlord won't reimburse you for improperly charged trash fees, file this to begin the court process.
View the General Sessions Civil Warrant Form (C-1)

Always retain copies of any communication and receipts related to your utility or trash billing.

FAQ: Trash and Recycling Charges for Tennessee Renters

Can my landlord charge me for trash removal even if it's not in the lease?
If your lease does not state you're responsible, typically your landlord cannot bill you separately for trash removal. Always review your lease before paying extra fees.
Who enforces tenant utility rights in Tennessee?
Local General Sessions Courts oversee disputes, and the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance handles consumer complaints.
Can my landlord disconnect trash services if I don't pay?
Landlords cannot discontinue essential services as retaliation, but you may be subject to lease enforcement or eviction processes if you violate your agreement.
Are landlords allowed to mark up trash or recycling charges?
Any markup must be stated in your lease; landlords cannot secretly add extra fees.
What should I do if my landlord charges more than the city rate?
Request a breakdown and check with your city’s solid waste department. If you believe you’re overcharged, seek help from state consumer protection resources or the court.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee Renters

Landlords can charge for trash and recycling if clearly stated in your lease
Always check your lease and ask for clarification on any fees
If you suspect unlawful charges, reach out to official state resources or court

Staying informed about your lease terms protects you from unexpected utility bills and supports your rights as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Renters Resources: Get help with complaints and find tenant guides
General Sessions Court of Tennessee: Tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes
Solid Waste Program – Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation: City/county waste contacts
Consumer Affairs Division: File a formal consumer complaint

Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 66, Chapter 28) – General tenant and landlord provisions