Tennessee Renters: Landlord Duties for Heat and Hot Water

If you're renting in Tennessee, having reliable heat and hot water is not just a comfort—it's about safe and livable housing. This guide will help you understand what your landlord must provide, what to do if your heat or hot water isn't working, and how to protect your rights under Tennessee law.

Landlord Responsibilities for Heat and Hot Water in Tennessee

Unlike some other states, Tennessee does not set specific minimum temperatures or dates when landlords must provide heat. However, landlords are required by law to keep rental properties "fit and habitable." This includes supplying "essential services" which generally means heat, hot water, electricity, and running water.

• Heat: If the rental unit has a heating system, the landlord must keep it in working order and safe condition.
• Hot Water: Landlords must supply a working water heater and provide hot water in accordance with building and health codes.
• Repairs: If heat or hot water stops working, landlords must make repairs promptly after being notified.

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance provides more information on general landlord and tenant responsibilities.

What Is Considered an "Essential Service"?

Under the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) Section 66-28-304, "essential services" include:

• Heat (if provided by the landlord)
• Hot and cold running water
• Electricity
• Sanitary plumbing

If your landlord fails to provide these services, you have legal rights and possible remedies under the law.

Steps to Take If Heat or Hot Water Is Not Provided

If you lose heat or hot water in your rental unit:

• Notify your landlord about the issue in writing as soon as possible. Written notice is required for most legal remedies in Tennessee.
• Give your landlord a reasonable time to make the repair—usually 14 days unless it’s an emergency.
• If the repair is not made, you may be able to pursue remedies like moving out temporarily or arranging repair yourself and deducting reasonable costs from rent. Always check official guidance and consider seeking legal advice before withholding rent.

If you decide on "repair and deduct" or need to take legal action, make sure to keep copies of all written correspondence, photos, and receipts.

Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Notice to Landlord of Breach of Lease or Noncompliance (No form number): Use this if your landlord fails to provide heat or hot water. It notifies them officially of the problem and your intent to seek remedies if not fixed.
  • Example: You have been without hot water for three days. You send the notice via certified mail, giving your landlord 14 days to fix the issue.
  • View the Tennessee Notice of Noncompliance sample form (official PDF)
• Complaint/Action to Recover Possession (General Sessions Civil Court Form) (No formal statewide number): If your landlord does not respond or you need legal remedies, this form starts a case in court.
  • Example: After your written notice, nothing is repaired. You file this form at your county’s General Sessions Court to request court intervention.

Which Tribunal or Agency Handles Tennessee Renters' Issues?

Landlord-tenant disputes in Tennessee—such as failure to repair heat or hot water—are usually handled by the General Sessions Court in the county where you rent.

There is no separate state board for residential tenancies. Instead, local courts have primary responsibility, especially for claims about "essential services."

Relevant Tennessee Legislation on Habitability

• Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), Section 66-28-304 – Landlord Obligations

This law requires landlords to maintain rental units so they are "fit and habitable" and provide all "essential services." If your unit is missing heat or hot water, the law protects your right to safe housing.

Frequently Asked Questions: Heat & Hot Water in Tennessee Rentals

1. Does my landlord have to provide heat in Tennessee?
   There is no specific law saying landlords must provide heat year-round. However, landlords are required to maintain existing heating systems and ensure all essential services are working.
2. What can I do if my landlord doesn't fix my heater or water heater?
   After giving written notice to your landlord and a reasonable opportunity to fix the issue, you may be able to use self-help remedies like "repair and deduct" or file a complaint in court if repairs are not made.
3. Can I withhold rent if the heat or hot water isn't working?
   Never withhold rent without following proper procedures. Give proper written notice and consider seeking legal advice before taking action, as improper withholding can lead to eviction.
4. Who do I contact for help if my landlord won’t respond?
   The General Sessions Court in your county handles housing disputes. You can also find help at local legal aid offices or through the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.
5. Is hot water an "essential service" in Tennessee rentals?
   Yes, hot water is considered an essential service under Tennessee law. Landlords must supply and repair hot water equipment as needed.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlords in Tennessee must provide working heat and hot water if supplied in the lease.
• Always notify your landlord in writing about any issues, and keep copies.
• If repairs aren't made, use official forms and seek help from the General Sessions Court in your county.

Understanding these basics helps you stay safe and get timely repairs.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Renter Resources
• General Sessions Court Directory – Find Your Local Court
• Tennessee Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division
• Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee – Get Legal Help

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1. Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Renters & Tenants Information
2. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) Section 66-28-304
3. Tennessee General Sessions Courts – Tenant Complaint Jurisdiction
4. Official Tennessee Notice of Noncompliance Sample Form (PDF)

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