Tennessee Rent Control Laws: 2025 Renter’s Guide

If you're renting in Tennessee and concerned about rent hikes, it's important to know what protections are available. Many renters ask whether Tennessee has rent control or rent stabilization laws—especially as the cost of living changes. Here’s an updated overview of how rent regulation works in Tennessee in 2025, including your rights, relevant forms, and support resources.

Is There Rent Control or Rent Stabilization in Tennessee?

Tennessee does not have rent control or rent stabilization. This means:

• Landlords are generally allowed to set rent prices freely when a lease begins or is renewed.
• There is no statewide or local cap on how much rent can be increased when a lease expires or goes month to month.

This is determined by state law. Local governments in Tennessee cannot pass their own rent control laws. The governing legislation, the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), prevents municipalities from adopting any form of rent control.^[1]

Does My City Have Different Rules?

No city or county in Tennessee can create its own rent regulation. Any rent limits are strictly prohibited by state law, even in larger cities like Nashville or Memphis.

How Are Rent Increases Handled?

Since there is no rent control, landlords may increase rent after your lease term ends. However, tenants do have certain notice rights:

• Advance Notice Required: Tennessee law requires that landlords provide at least 30 days written notice before raising rent for month-to-month tenants. Fixed-term leases (like a one-year lease) can only have a rent increase when renewed, unless a specific clause allows increases mid-lease.^[2]

What Notice Looks Like

Rent increase notices should be given in writing. Sample forms include:

• Notice of Rent Increase (no official state form issued): Landlords typically provide a simple written letter stating the new rent amount and the effective date, delivered at least 30 days in advance for month-to-month rentals.

Your Rights and Next Steps if You Get a Rent Increase

If your lease is ending or month-to-month, you do not have to accept the new rent. You may choose to:

• Negotiate the increase or request more time before it takes effect
• Accept the new rent and continue living there
• Give notice to move out before the new rent applies (usually requires 30 days' written notice from you, too)

For fixed-term leases, your landlord generally cannot raise your rent until your lease ends unless your agreement specifically allows it.

Relevant Forms for Renters

• Tennessee 30-Day Notice to Terminate (No official number)
  Use when: You want to move out of a month-to-month rental after a rent increase or other reason. This written notice should be provided to your landlord.
  Find an official outline and requirements at: State of Tennessee Landlord-Tenant Page.
• Notice of Rent Increase (no official state form)
  Used by landlords to notify tenants—a written letter or notice meets the legal requirement as long as it includes the new amount and advance notice.

Which Tribunal Handles Landlord-Tenant Disputes?

If you have a dispute about rent increases, deposits, or termination, contact or file with your local General Sessions Court. This court handles most residential landlord-tenant cases in Tennessee.

For more on your legal rights, refer directly to the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA).

FAQ: Tennessee Rent Regulation and Your Rights

1. Does Tennessee have any rent control laws?
   No. Tennessee state law prohibits rent control and rent stabilization. Cities and counties are also barred from enacting their own rent limits.
2. How much can my landlord increase my rent?
   There is no legal cap on rent increases. But landlords must give at least 30 days written notice before raising rent for month-to-month tenants.
3. Can I be evicted for refusing a rent increase?
   If you do not accept a lawful rent increase and do not move out after proper notice, your landlord may begin eviction procedures through the General Sessions Court.
4. Who handles disputes about rent increases in Tennessee?
   The General Sessions Court in your county is the official venue for residential landlord-tenant disputes.
5. Where can renters get help or file a complaint about rent issues?
   Contact Tennessee Consumer Affairs – Landlord/Tenant for support and resources.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee Renters

• Tennessee law does not include rent control or limits on rent increases.
• Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice for rent increases in month-to-month tenancies.
• Official disputes and eviction cases are handled by the county General Sessions Court.

It’s always a good idea to read your lease carefully and know your rights before responding to rent changes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• State of Tennessee Landlord-Tenant Page – Information sheets and tenant hotline
• General Sessions Courts of Tennessee – File disputes and find local court info
• Tennessee Department of Human Services – Emergency rental assistance resources

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1. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) § 66-35-107
2. Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Landlord/Tenant Guide

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