Tennessee Move-In Checklist: Essential Inspections for Renters

Moving into a rental home in Tennessee is an exciting step, but it comes with important responsibilities. Before you sign your lease, completing a thorough move-in inspection is the best way to protect your rights and future deposit. Tennessee law gives renters key protections and transparency with required disclosures and inspection forms. Here's what to know and do for a smooth start in your new home.

Why Move-In Inspections Matter in Tennessee

Move-in inspections help prevent disputes over damage or repairs when you move out. By documenting the property's condition, both you and your landlord have a shared record. Tennessee’s landlord-tenant law encourages clear communication and use of checklists to settle security deposit concerns and maintenance issues.

What to Inspect Before You Sign

Tennessee renters should use a detailed checklist before moving in. Carefully assess each area and keep records, including dated photos. Here’s what to inspect:

• Doors, locks, and windows: Test for secure locks and working keys.
• Floors, walls, and ceilings: Note scratches, stains, holes, or peeling paint.
• Appliances and fixtures: Ensure stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, plumbing, and light fixtures work properly.
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Confirm all are present and functional as required by law.
• Heating and air conditioning: Test to confirm all units operate as expected.
• Bathrooms: Check toilets, showers, and sinks for leaks or damage.
• Pest evidence: Look for signs of pests or rodents.
• Exterior and common areas: Inspect for safety and cleanliness.
• Presence of required landlord disclosures: Such as lead-based paint notices or flood risk disclosures if applicable.

Bring a printed or digital move-in checklist. Carefully document anything that might be blamed on you later.

Required Tennessee Move-In Forms and Disclosures

• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act): This checklist is required by state law for rentals in counties covered by the Act. Both landlord and tenant should sign and date the list at move-in and move-out. Download the official checklist sample from the state.
  For example, before moving in, go room by room with your landlord using this form, recording the present condition. This will be used again at the end of the tenancy.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for pre-1978 homes): Landlords must supply a federal disclosure form if the property was built before 1978. Read details and download the federal form.
  For example, if you’re moving into an older apartment, your landlord must give you this form to sign before the lease is finalized.
• Security Deposit Receipt: Upon collecting your deposit, the landlord must provide a written receipt or include payment details in your lease. This ensures transparency about where your deposit is held.

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance: Consumer Affairs Division oversees statewide landlord-tenant concerns and can provide guidance.

Understanding Your Legal Protections as a Tenant

Renters in Tennessee are protected by the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) (applies in most counties with a population above 75,000). This law requires clear agreements about security deposits, repairs, and move-in documentation. If a landlord fails to provide a move-in inspection checklist, it could affect their ability to withhold your deposit for damage not listed when you moved in.

What If You Find Problems?

If you notice issues—such as leaky plumbing or broken appliances—during your inspection:

• Note every problem on your checklist and take photos.
• Report any urgent repairs in writing to your landlord.
• Do not sign the final lease or accept keys until problems are addressed or written into your lease as pending repairs.

If repairs are promised, request a written agreement or addendum as part of your rental file.

Next Steps: After the Inspection

Once the move-in checklist is complete and signed by both parties, keep a copy with your lease documents. This will protect you when you move out and help ensure a fair return of your security deposit.

1. What forms do I need for a move-in inspection in Tennessee?
   The main form is the Move-In/Move-Out Checklist required by state law. If the home was built before 1978, you will also sign a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure. Some landlords use additional property-specific checklists.
2. What should I do if my landlord won’t provide a move-in checklist?
   If your landlord does not provide the required checklist, create your own and request they sign it. You can also contact the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance for guidance or mediation.
3. Can I add items or notes to the inspection form?
   Yes! You should list any issues you find, no matter how small. It is your right to document the property’s condition in detail.
4. Do I have to pay a security deposit if problems are found during inspection?
   You may still pay a deposit, but request that unresolved issues are documented and that a timeline for repairs is included—or withhold payment until the problems are fixed or acknowledged in writing.
5. Who handles rental disputes in Tennessee?
   The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance, Consumer Affairs Division oversees rental disputes and can assist with complaints and questions about landlord or tenant obligations.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee Renters

• Always complete a move-in checklist with your landlord and keep a copy.
• Document all areas, take photos, and report any concerns in writing.
• Understand your rights under the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

This process can help protect your security deposit and resolve disputes before they start.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance, Consumer Affairs Division – Tenant and landlord information or complaints.
• Official Landlord-Tenant Information (State of Tennessee) – Forms, guides, and legal updates.
• Legal Aid of Tennessee – Free legal help for qualifying renters.
• EPA Lead Disclosure Information for Renters

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1. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance
3. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule

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