Tennessee Rules on Charging Pet Rent: Limits & Tenant Rights

Many tenants in Tennessee wonder about the rules and limits around pet rent, deposits, and pet fees. Understanding your rights as a renter makes it easier to budget, avoid disputes, and ensure your pet is welcome in your home. This guide uses only official sources, helping you navigate Tennessee's current laws on pet rent and related charges.

Can Landlords Charge Pet Rent in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, landlords are legally allowed to charge tenants additional fees for having pets. These charges can include:

• Monthly pet rent: An extra amount added to your rent payment each month.
• Pet fees: One-time, non-refundable fees paid at move-in.
• Pet deposits: Refundable deposits intended to cover pet-related damages.

There is no statewide law that prohibits or limits landlords from charging pet rent or pet-related fees, as long as these charges are clearly outlined in the lease agreement and do not violate anti-discrimination laws.^[1]

Are There Any Caps or Limits on Pet Deposits or Pet Rent?

Tennessee law does not set a state cap on pet rent or pet fees. However, there is a maximum security deposit allowed, which can include a portion allocated for pets.

• The law does not specify a dollar amount cap for pet rent or pet fees.
• Tennessee law states that any deposit collected is considered a security deposit, whether labeled for pets or not.

It's crucial to carefully read your rental agreement to see how much you are being asked to pay for pets and how the landlord labels these charges. For official details, visit the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act - Security Deposits section or the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Landlord/Tenant page.^[2][3]

Assistance Animals and Fair Housing Protections

Landlords cannot charge pet fees, pet rent, or deposits for service animals or emotional support animals required by tenants with disabilities. These animals are protected under the federal Fair Housing Act.

What Should Be in Your Lease Agreement?

Your lease must clearly spell out any pet-related charges. If your rental agreement does not mention pet rent or fees, your landlord may not add charges later without your written consent. Details should include:

• Monthly pet rent amount
• One-time pet fee (if applicable)
• Pet deposit amount, and any rules for returns or deductions
• Rules or restrictions on types, sizes, or numbers of pets

If you’re not sure which charges apply, ask your landlord for clarification before signing any agreement.

Forms and Practical Steps for Renters

If you believe you were wrongly charged a pet fee for an assistance animal, you may wish to formally request an exemption or file a complaint. While Tennessee does not have a specific "Pet Fee Dispute Form," renters can use standard complaint or request forms.

• Disability Accommodation Request Form: While not required by a specific number in Tennessee, renters may submit a written request for reasonable accommodation. Sample language and guides can be found at HUD’s Assistance Animal Guidance.
  Use this form if you need your landlord to recognize an assistance animal and exempt pet fees.
• Tenant Complaint Form (General): Tennessee renters can file a general consumer complaint regarding unfair fees with the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs.
  Use this form if you believe fees are being unfairly or incorrectly charged.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenancy Disputes in Tennessee?

The main authority for residential tenancy matters in Tennessee is the local General Sessions Court. Disputes over pet fees, deposits, or rent are typically filed there.

FAQ: Pet Rent and Fees in Tennessee

1. Can my landlord increase pet rent during my lease?
   Generally, no. Unless your lease says otherwise, pet rent cannot be increased mid-lease and must be negotiated during lease renewal.
2. Are emotional support animals exempt from pet rent in Tennessee?
   Yes. Assistance animals, including service dogs and emotional support animals, must be exempt from any pet-related charges as required by federal law.
3. What if my landlord refuses to return my pet deposit?
   You can write a formal demand, and if unresolved, file a claim at the General Sessions Court for return of your deposit or damages.
4. Can landlords charge "pet rent" in addition to a pet deposit?
   Yes, landlords may charge both if specified in your lease, as Tennessee law does not cap or combine these charges.
5. Does Tennessee law limit pet fees for apartments?
   No, there is no specific statewide limit on pet fees for apartments, but charges must be disclosed in your lease agreement.

Key Takeaways

• Tennessee landlords may charge pet rent, fees, or deposits—make sure these are clearly stated in your lease.
• No statewide caps exist for pet rent or pet fees, but security deposits (including for pets) are regulated by law.
• Assistance animals are fully exempt from pet charges and protected by both state and federal law.

Review your lease, know your rights, and use official channels if you need to resolve a dispute over pet-related charges.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Landlord/Tenant FAQs
• Tennessee General Sessions Courts – Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution
• Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs – File a Complaint
• HUD – Assistance Animals and Fair Housing Act Guidance

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1. Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance – Landlord/Tenant Rights and Duties
2. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Title 66, Chapter 28
3. Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs – File a Complaint
4. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Assistance Animals Guidance
5. Tennessee General Sessions Courts – Tenancy Disputes

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