Required Elements for a Tennessee Lease Agreement

Signing a lease is a major step for Tennessee renters. Make sure your written lease agreement includes everything required by state law to protect yourself and understand your rights. This article explains Tennessee's essential lease elements, using clear language and official references so you’re fully informed throughout your renting experience.

Key Requirements for Tennessee Lease Agreements

Under the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, certain basics must be included in writing for a residential lease to be valid in much of Tennessee^[1]. Most of these rules apply in counties with a population of more than 75,000, but most landlords follow these standards across the state.

What Must Be in Every Tennessee Lease Agreement?

• Names and contact info for all landlords (owners/managers) and renters signing the lease
• Rental unit address and description (such as apartment number, street address)
• Lease term (start and end dates, or if month-to-month)
• Amount of rent, when and how to pay, and accepted payment methods
• Security deposit details: amount paid, terms for return, and where it will be held
• Rules about utilities: which party (landlord or renter) pays for water, electricity, etc.
• Occupancy limits (who is allowed to live in the unit)
• Repairs and maintenance responsibilities for both landlord and tenant
• Notice requirements for ending lease or rent increases
• State-mandated disclosures (lead-based paint, landlord identity, flooding history, etc.)

Both renters and landlords should keep a signed copy of the final lease agreement. If something is missing or unclear, speak up before signing to avoid misunderstandings.

Important State-Mandated Disclosures

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for homes built before 1978): Federal law requires landlords to provide tenants with an EPA-approved pamphlet on lead safety, plus a disclosure form. See the official EPA disclosure resources.
• Landlord Identity Disclosure: The lease must clearly state the name and address of the owner or property manager authorized to receive legal notices and manage the property. (Tenn. Code §66-28-302)
• Flooding Notification: It is recommended (and sometimes required by local ordinance) that landlords inform tenants if a rental has flooded in the past three years.

Disclosures help renters know who to contact with issues and understand possible risks related to the unit.

Security Deposits and Lease Forms

Tennessee law limits how security deposits are handled. While there’s no state-mandated form for the lease itself, some official lease forms and documentation are commonly used and recognized by state agencies.

Standard Lease Agreement Form

• Name: Sample Residential Lease Agreement (no form number)
• When used: To outline terms between the tenant and landlord for tenancy in writing
• Example: Before moving in, ask your landlord to provide a copy you can review and keep. While Tennessee does not provide a formal state lease template, many organizations use this Sample Residential Lease Agreement from the Tennessee Housing Development Agency.

Move-In/Out Condition Checklist

• Name: Move-In/Move-Out Checklist
• When used: To document the rental’s condition at move-in and move-out
• Example: On or before moving in, ask your landlord to walk through with you and complete this checklist. Get a signed copy for your records. While not required by state law, it protects your security deposit.
• Source: The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance provides an official Move-In/Out Checklist.

Who Oversees Rental Disputes in Tennessee?

The Tennessee State Courts process most landlord-tenant disputes, including eviction hearings. Small claims court may be used for things like security deposit disagreements.

For rights or issues under the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, renters can also seek guidance from the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.

FAQ: Tennessee Lease Agreement Basics

1. Can my landlord change the lease after I sign it?
   Once both parties sign, the terms can only be changed with mutual written agreement. Your landlord cannot legally alter the lease without your consent.
2. Do I have to sign a written lease in Tennessee?
   No, but it is highly recommended. Many laws still apply to verbal leases, but written agreements clarify rights and obligations.
3. What information must my landlord provide at the start?
   The landlord must supply their name and address (or their agent’s), the rental amount, length of lease, utility rules, and any required health/safety disclosures.
4. How do I get my security deposit back?
   You should receive your deposit within 30 days after moving out, less any proper deductions. Keep the signed move-in/out checklist to avoid disputes.
5. Where can I get a sample Tennessee lease agreement?
   The Tennessee Housing Development Agency provides a sample lease form for reference.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tennessee Renters

Understanding what must be included in your Tennessee lease agreement is the best way to protect your rights. Always:

• Ensure the lease spells out all the terms discussed with your landlord.
• Request and keep written copies of all agreements and disclosures.
• Use checklists and official resources before you sign or move out.

Clear, detailed, and legal agreements help prevent misunderstandings and support strong tenant-landlord relationships.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance: Tenants & Landlords – State housing guidance
• Tennessee State Courts – File complaints, seek dispute resolution
• Tennessee Housing Development Agency – Renter Information – Forms, info, and sample agreements
• EPA – Lead Paint Disclosure for Renters

---

1. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (T.C.A. §66-28-101 et seq.)
2. Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance: Tenants & Landlords
3. Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA): Renters

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations