Tennessee Apartment Bedbug Disclosure Laws Explained

If you’re moving into a new apartment in Tennessee, you may be concerned about possible pests—including bedbugs. Knowing your rights under Tennessee law is key to a safe and healthy start in your new home. Bedbug disclosure requirements, inspection duties, and what to do if you spot a problem are all covered by specific state laws designed to protect both renters and landlords.

What Are Tennessee’s Bedbug Disclosure Laws for Apartments?

Tennessee has specific rules about bedbug disclosures and responsibilities during move-in. According to the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords have legal responsibilities to address bedbug infestations and must disclose bedbug information to tenants moving in.

Landlord Duties: Bedbug Disclosure and Inspection

Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 66-28-517, landlords:

• Must inform renters if there has been any bedbug infestation in the past 30 days and if treatment is still ongoing.
• May ask prospective tenants to sign a written affirmation that the tenant is not bringing in infested belongings.
• Must provide educational materials about bedbugs to all new tenants.

This protects both you and your neighbors by helping prevent the spread of these pests. You have a right to this information before signing your lease.

What Forms or Official Documents Are Required?

• Bedbug Addendum or Disclosure Statement: Tennessee does not require a standardized statewide bedbug form, but landlords must provide written disclosures about infestations. Always request bedbug-related paperwork from your landlord during lease signing. If you're given a "Bedbug Addendum," review it for accuracy and honesty about current and past infestations. See official statute language here.
• Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form: If your landlord fails to disclose or resolve a bedbug problem, you may file a complaint with your local codes enforcement office. Many counties use an online form—check with your city or county Property Standards/Code Enforcement. Example: Nashville Codes Complaint Form.

Example: If you notice bites after moving in, check your lease for any bedbug language. If none is present and you weren't given an addendum, ask your landlord in writing for the disclosure. If you don’t get a response, file a complaint with your city or county code enforcement office.

Where to File a Dispute: Tennessee Residential Tenancy Tribunal

Complaints about unresolved bedbug infestations or the landlord’s failure to disclose can go to your local General Sessions Court, the official tribunal for landlord-tenant matters in Tennessee. More info is at the Tennessee General Sessions Courts page.

What Tenants Must Do When Moving In

• Ask for all disclosures about bedbugs, and request copies of any bedbug addendum with your lease.
• If asked, sign a written affirmation stating your furniture and belongings aren’t from an infested site. Be truthful to avoid liability.
• Carefully inspect your unit and your own items for signs of bedbugs when moving in.

Legislation Protecting Tennessee Renters

Bedbug protections can be found in the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)—particularly § 66-28-517 regarding bedbug regulations. URLTA applies in counties with a population over 75,000, but bedbug issues in all areas are addressed by Tennessee’s health and property codes.

FAQ: Bedbug Laws for Tenants in Tennessee Apartments

1. Are landlords legally required to tell new tenants if an apartment had bedbugs?
   Yes. If there was a bedbug infestation within the past 30 days or an untreated infestation, landlords must provide written disclosure before you sign the lease.
2. What should I do if I find bedbugs after moving in?
   Notify your landlord in writing immediately. Include photos or other evidence and keep copies of your correspondence. If there’s no prompt response, file a complaint with your city or county codes office.
3. What legal actions can tenants take if their landlord refuses to address an infestation?
   You may file a complaint with your local property standards office. If the problem persists, file a claim in General Sessions Court.
4. Do I have to sign a bedbug addendum when moving in?
   Landlords can require a signed affirmation stating your items are bedbug-free. Always read the addendum carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
5. Does Tennessee provide an official state-wide bedbug disclosure form?
   No. While disclosure is required by law, there is no single official form; most landlords use their own written notice or lease addendum.

Conclusion: Key Points for Tennessee Renters

• Landlords must disclose recent or untreated bedbug infestations in writing before you sign a lease.
• There is no official state disclosure form, but written proof is required—and you should protect yourself by getting it in writing.
• If you discover bedbugs, act immediately: document, notify your landlord, and use local resources if necessary.

Staying alert to these rules helps renters move in with confidence and respond quickly if a problem arises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)
• Tennessee General Sessions Courts – Landlord-Tenant Issues
• Property Standards/Code Enforcement Complaint – Nashville Example
• Tennessee Department of Health: Bed Bugs

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1. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Public Chapter No. 87 (2019)
2. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Full Document
3. Tennessee General Sessions Courts
4. Nashville Property Standards/Complaint Form
5. Tennessee Department of Health: Bedbugs

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