Tennessee Rental Properties: Drinking Water Safety Rules

Clean, safe drinking water is essential for your health and well-being. As a renter in Tennessee, it’s important to know what your landlord is legally required to provide — and what you can do if your rental water isn’t up to standard. This article guides you through tenants’ rights and landlord obligations for drinking water safety in Tennessee rental properties, including helpful resources and action steps if problems arise.

What Are the Drinking Water Standards for Tennessee Rentals?

In Tennessee, landlords are legally required to provide safe, potable (drinkable) water to rental properties under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA). Whether your water comes from a city utility or a private well, it must meet state and federal health standards. Landlords must maintain all plumbing and water supply systems in good working order.^[1]

• Public water: Must meet standards set by the U.S. EPA Safe Drinking Water Act and Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC Drinking Water).
• Private wells: Landlords are responsible for ensuring the water is safe. TDEC recommends annual well testing.

What Does “Safe” Mean?

Water is considered safe when it’s free of harmful contaminants (like lead, bacteria, or chemicals) and is suitable for drinking, cooking, and bathing. The EPA and TDEC set maximum limits for specific contaminants. If your water has a strange taste, odor, color, or causes illness, it may be unsafe.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

Under Tennessee law, you have the right to live in a rental with safe drinking water. If this standard is not met, you may request repairs or, in some cases, withhold rent, end your lease, or seek relief from a housing authority or court. The main legislation protecting your rights is the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) (Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 66-28-101 et seq.).^[1]

How to Report Unsafe Drinking Water

If your water is unsafe or the plumbing is failing, notify your landlord in writing immediately. If the landlord does not take prompt action, you may escalate your complaint. For city water, contact your local water utility; for wells, contact TDEC Drinking Water Unit for testing or advice.

Key Form: Notice to Landlord of Needed Repairs

• Form: No official state-wide form, but use a Written Notice to Landlord of Conditions Needing Repair. Clearly state the water issue and request repair within 14 days.
• When & How Used: Use when your landlord has not fixed a water quality or plumbing issue. Send via certified mail, keep a copy, and follow up.
• Example: “On [date], I noticed the tap water had a strong odor and was brown. Please test and repair the water system within 14 days as required by state law.”

While there’s no universal “Tenant Repair Request” form, many city housing authorities provide templates (see, for example, Memphis Housing & Community Development Fair Housing).

If Your Water Remains Unsafe: Next Steps

If problems continue after written notice, there are several options:

• File a complaint with your local TDEC Drinking Water Unit or city code enforcement.
• Contact your county health department for water testing or inspection.
• For serious, unaddressed violations, you may apply to the appropriate court (General Sessions Court or Circuit Court) for landlord-tenant matters. See Tennessee General Sessions Courts for details.
• If your water is shut off unlawfully, contact the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs.

Each of these steps can help protect your right to safe housing.

Who Handles Disputes?

Landlord-tenant disputes, including those about housing standards and essential services, are handled by the General Sessions Court in your county. Learn more about Tennessee General Sessions Courts.

FAQ: Drinking Water and Rental Homes in Tennessee

1. What should I do if my rental water looks or smells odd?
   Notify your landlord in writing, request prompt testing and repairs, and keep records. For persistent problems, contact TDEC or your health department for help.
2. Who is responsible for water quality when I rent a property?
   The landlord must maintain safe, drinkable water – whether from a public source or well. They are responsible for repairs and system upkeep.
3. Can I withhold rent in Tennessee if repairs to water are not made?
   You can only legally withhold rent in certain cases and after providing proper notice. Speak to your local housing authority or the court for guidance before stopping rent.
4. Is there a specific government form to report unsafe water conditions?
   No statewide form exists, but a detailed written notice to your landlord is essential. Some city offices offer repair request templates for tenants.
5. Where can I get my water tested in Tennessee if I suspect contamination?
   Contact the TDEC Drinking Water Unit or your local county health department for approved water testing options.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tennessee Renters

• Landlords must provide safe, drinkable water in all rental homes.
• Act quickly: send written notice and document any unsafe water issues.
• Escalate to local or state agencies, or General Sessions Court, if your concerns aren’t addressed.

Staying informed and organized can help you protect your home and health.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• TDEC Drinking Water Unit (info, complaints, well testing)
• Tennessee General Sessions Court (rental disputes, landlord-tenant appeals)
• Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs
• Memphis HCD: Fair Housing Resources
• Check your county health department for water testing or support

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1. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 66-28-101 et seq.)
2. US EPA National Primary Drinking Water Standards
3. Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation Drinking Water Program

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