Can my landlord install a smart lock without my permission in Tennessee?

Tennessee law does not specifically require tenant consent for lock changes, but landlords should provide notice, and it's best to have written communication about any lock installation.

Can my landlord see when I enter or leave my apartment with a smart lock?

If the landlord controls the smart lock system, they may access entry logs, but they must still respect notice and privacy laws for entry.

What should I do if my landlord enters without proper notice using a smart lock?

Document the incident, send a written objection, and contact your local General Sessions Court if the issue continues.

Are there official forms for smart lock entry complaints in Tennessee?

There are no smart lock–specific forms, but you can use general notice or complaint forms from the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.

Which board or tribunal handles landlord-tenant disputes in Tennessee?

The General Sessions Court in your county handles landlord-tenant disputes in Tennessee.

Tenant Privacy and Smart Locks: Tennessee Rules

Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Tennessee published June 21, 2025

Smart locks offer convenience and security, but they also raise important privacy concerns for renters. In Tennessee, both landlords and tenants are turning to smart home technology. If you're renting in Tennessee and your landlord installs a smart lock or is considering it, it's important to know your rights and how your privacy is legally protected under current state law.

Landlord Entry and Tenant Privacy in Tennessee

In Tennessee, rental laws are governed primarily by the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), which sets limits on when and how a landlord can enter your rental unit. While URLTA does not specifically mention “smart locks,” its broad rules about notice and entry apply to all forms of locks and access.

Reasonable Notice: Outside emergencies, landlords must provide at least 24 hours' notice before entering for repairs or inspections.
Tenant Consent: Entry should occur at reasonable times, typically during business hours, except for cases of emergency.

Landlords cannot enter simply because they have access to smart locks or remote systems. The law protects your right to quiet enjoyment of your home, meaning you should expect privacy unless urgent repairs or emergencies occur.

Smart Locks: What Renters Should Know

Smart locks replace traditional keys with codes, fobs, or app access. They may offer enhanced security, but they also store logs of entry and exit, and landlords may retain digital control. Here’s what this means for renters in Tennessee:

Disclosure: Landlords should inform tenants before installing or replacing locks, especially with models that allow remote access.
Access Rights: While landlords can hold a key or code for emergencies, they cannot use it to enter the property outside permitted situations.
Data Privacy: Tennessee law doesn't yet address digital log data from smart locks, so it’s best to discuss privacy expectations during lease negotiation.

Key Takeaway: Even with a smart lock, your landlord must still follow all standard notice and entry laws in Tennessee.

What if You’re Uncomfortable with Smart Locks?

If a landlord installs a smart lock and you are concerned about privacy, you can:

Request written information on who has access to the lock and entry logs
Negotiate for exclusive access codes or request a traditional backup key
Document all communications regarding access and privacy expectations

Forms and How to Protect Your Privacy

While Tennessee does not have smart lock–specific forms, renters can use standard notice forms when addressing entry and privacy concerns:

Notice of Entry Objection (no official form number): Write a dated, signed letter to your landlord objecting to improper entry or asking for clarification about smart lock access. Example: If your landlord enters with only a few minutes' notice, send a letter stating that notice was insufficient under URLTA rules. Download a sample Tenant Notice Form from the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.
Maintenance Request or Complaint (no official form number): Use this to formally request that a landlord address a lock malfunction or privacy breach. Find official tenant resources here.

Always keep copies of all forms and communications sent to your landlord.

Disputes: Where to Get Help

If you cannot resolve privacy or entry disputes, you may turn to your local county General Sessions Court, which handles residential landlord-tenant issues in Tennessee. For more on your rights and the latest information, visit the Tennessee Real Estate Commission and review the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord install a smart lock without my permission?
Tennessee law does not require landlord permission to change locks, but best practice is for your landlord to notify you before installing or changing locking systems. Check your lease or ask for written confirmation.
Can my landlord access entry logs from my smart lock?
Possibly, depending on the lock model and who controls the account. However, your landlord still may not use information from entry logs to intrude or enter the unit outside of legal notice requirements.
What should I do if I think my privacy is being violated?
Document all incidents, send a written objection to your landlord, and contact your local General Sessions Court if unresolved. You can also reach out to the Tennessee Real Estate Commission for further guidance.
Who handles disputes over landlord entry in Tennessee?
The county General Sessions Court is the venue for handling residential disputes between landlords and tenants regarding entry and privacy issues.
Are there official forms for objecting to smart lock use?
No smart lock–specific forms exist, but you can use or adapt existing notice or complaint forms available from the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee Renters

Landlords must give at least 24 hours' notice before entering your home — even if they have smart lock access.
You have a right to privacy under Tennessee law; communicate with your landlord about smart lock concerns in writing.
Disputes can be brought to the General Sessions Court or addressed via tenant notice forms.

Understanding the basics of privacy law and smart lock usage keeps renters protected and informed in Tennessee.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC) – State board overseeing rental disputes and landlord-tenant laws.
Tennessee Consumer Help – File complaints or ask housing questions.
Renter Resources – Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Official forms, notices, education, and support.
Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) – Full text of TN rental law.
Local General Sessions Court – Handles landlord-tenant disputes in your county.

Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), official version here
Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance, official renter resources
General Sessions Court information, see list here