Demanding Repairs Before You Move In: Tennessee Renters’ Guide

Moving into a new rental home in Tennessee is an exciting step, but it’s important to ensure your new apartment or house is safe and well-maintained before you move your belongings in. Tennessee law gives renters certain rights when it comes to repairs and move-in condition. This guide explains what steps you can take to demand repairs before move-in, what paperwork and inspections are involved, and which official resources are available to support you.

Your Right to a Habitable Home

In Tennessee, landlords must provide rental units that meet basic health and safety standards, known as the "implied warranty of habitability." This means your home must have functioning plumbing, electricity, heat, smoke detectors, and be free from major hazards. These requirements are outlined in the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) for most urban and suburban areas^[1].

Inspections and Initial Move-In Condition

Before signing your lease or handing over rent, you have a right to inspect the property. This walk-through lets you note any problems or safety issues.

• Look for leaking faucets, damaged windows or doors, broken appliances, or pest signs.
• Check smoke alarms, locks, plumbing, and basic cleanliness.
• Document issues with clear notes and date-stamped photos or videos.

How to Officially Request Repairs

If you notice needed repairs before moving in, put your request in written form to the landlord or property manager right away. Tennessee doesn’t have a mandatory statewide repair request form, but written records are critical if a dispute arises later.

• Email or mail your request, keeping a copy for yourself.
• Describe the needed repairs and include photos if possible.
• Ask the landlord to confirm when the repairs will be completed.
• Do not accept verbal promises alone—always get repair agreements in writing.

Sample Form: Move-In/Move-Out Checklist

Form Name: Move-In/Move-Out Checklist
Where to Find: While Tennessee does not require a specific government-issued form, the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance provides a sample Move-In/Move-Out Checklist renters can use.
How to Use: Complete this checklist with your landlord before moving in, noting any damage or repairs needed. Both parties should sign the form, with each keeping a copy.
Example: If you find mold in the bathroom during your initial walk-through, note this on the checklist and include it in your written repair request.

A proper checklist creates an official record that can be used if you need to prove that damage existed prior to occupancy, or if repairs are not completed as promised.

If Repairs Are Not Made Before Move-In

If your landlord does not complete necessary repairs you requested before your move-in date, here’s what you can do:

• Communicate in writing: Remind your landlord which repairs remain and request a specific timeline for completion.
• Contact local housing authorities: In some cases, you can request a housing code inspection through your city or county.
• Consider delayed move-in: If repairs are substantial, you may negotiate a delayed move-in or inquire about temporary rent reduction until work is finished.
• If issues continue, you may be able to terminate the lease and seek your deposit back, but first seek legal advice and check the rules in the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[2]

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Tennessee?

Rental disputes in Tennessee, including repair issues, are generally handled by Tennessee General Sessions Courts. Tenants or landlords may file an action if negotiations fail. Contact your county’s General Sessions Court for filing guidance.

Quick Steps to Demand Pre-Move-In Repairs

• Inspect the unit before committing.
• Document all issues and needed repairs.
• Send a detailed, dated written repair request to your landlord and keep copies.
• Use an official or sample move-in checklist and sign it with your landlord.
• If repairs aren’t made, consider further steps (contact local officials or court) before moving in.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I have to move in if my Tennessee landlord hasn’t made repairs?
   If the rental unit does not meet basic habitability standards and repairs have not been made, you may refuse to move in or negotiate a delayed move-in. Always get agreements in writing and seek guidance from the local General Sessions Court if disputes arise.
2. What should I include in a pre-move-in repair request?
   Your repair request should list every issue clearly, attach photos if possible, and include a timeline for response or completion. Written requests are best for accountability.
3. What if there is unsafe damage, like mold or exposed wires, before move-in?
   Unsafe conditions should be reported immediately to your landlord in writing. If health or safety hazards are present, contact your city’s housing code office or local health department for an inspection, and consider delaying move-in until fixed.
4. Are Tennessee landlords required to provide a move-in inspection checklist?
   No, but it is strongly encouraged to use a move-in/move-out checklist (see the Tennessee sample form) to document conditions at the start of the lease.
5. Where do I file a formal repair complaint if my landlord won’t fix serious issues?
   You can file in your local General Sessions Court in Tennessee if informal negotiations, repair requests, and code enforcement haven’t resolved the problem.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee Renters

• Inspect your rental thoroughly and document all pre-move-in issues in writing.
• Send a formal repair request and keep copies for your records.
• Use available checklists and know you can seek legal recourse if repairs are ignored.

Understanding your rights and taking documented action protects your health, safety, and finances as a renter in Tennessee.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance: Renters’ Rights
• General Sessions Courts (find your county court)
• Tennessee Consumer Protection: File a Complaint
• Tennessee Housing Development Agency: For Renters

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1. Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA): Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Renters’ Rights
2. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act - Full Text

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