Tennessee Short-Term Vacation Rentals: Tenant Rights & Protections

Short-term vacation rentals have become increasingly popular in Tennessee, especially in cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville. But if you’re a renter facing conversion to a short-term rental, or living in one temporarily, it’s essential to know your rights and responsibilities under Tennessee law. This guide breaks down tenant protections, eviction rules, and where to turn for help, all in plain language.

What Are Short-Term Vacation Rentals in Tennessee?

Short-term vacation rentals are properties offered for stays shorter than 30 days, including units listed on sites like Airbnb or VRBO. In Tennessee, these rentals are often governed by different rules compared to traditional, long-term leases. If you're currently renting or plan to rent a short-term property, certain landlord-tenant laws may still apply depending on the circumstances.

Tenant Rights for Short-Term Vacation Rentals

Whether you are renting for a weekend or a month, the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)¹ may provide some protections if the property is located in a qualifying county or city (typically those with a population over 75,000). Otherwise, general contract law and local ordinances may apply.

Key Rights and Protections:

• Written Agreement: Always request a written rental agreement, clearly stating lease terms, rent, deposit, and included amenities.
• Habitability: Landlords must maintain a safe, livable property (e.g., working locks, running water).
• Notice Before Eviction: If the property is governed by URLTA, you must receive written notice if your stay is being terminated early.
• Deposit Return: You are entitled to a prompt return of any security deposit after your stay, minus any lawful deductions.

Eviction and Legal Process

If you rent a short-term unit and the landlord asks you to leave before your rental period is up, the process will depend on your agreement and local laws. In cities covered by URLTA, landlords must generally provide:

• At least 14 days’ written notice for lease violations (such as breaking house rules).
• At least 30 days’ written notice for ending a month-to-month tenancy without cause.

For shorter stays (such as week-to-week), landlords typically must give advance notice equal to the rental period.

Official Forms for Renters in Short-Term Vacation Rentals

If you have a problem—like not getting your security deposit back, or an illegal eviction—you may need to file paperwork or a complaint. Here are the most relevant forms for Tennessee renters:

• Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act Complaint Form
  (no official form number)
  Use: If you live in a county or city covered by URLTA, use this form to start a formal complaint about your landlord at Tennessee Courts.
  Example: You rented a vacation unit in Nashville and the owner locked you out without proper notice. You could file this complaint via your local General Sessions Court.
  Download General Sessions Civil Case Form
• Security Deposit Dispute Request
  (County-specific process; no statewide form)
  Use: If your landlord has not returned your security deposit, you can file a complaint in General Sessions Court.
  Example: You left the vacation rental clean, but did not get your deposit back. File a small claims action using the General Sessions Civil Case Form.

Where to File & Who Resolves Disputes?

In Tennessee, residential landlord-tenant disputes (including those related to short-term rentals) are usually handled by the General Sessions Court in your local county².

Legislation Covering Short-Term Rentals

Tenant rights are based primarily on the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Local city or county rules may apply—especially in areas like Nashville, which have additional short-term rental regulations.

Steps to Assert Your Rights as a Short-Term Renter

Should you face an issue—like being told to leave improperly or losing your deposit—follow these actions:

• Request all communications and agreements in writing.
• Document the condition of the property (photos before and after).
• Contact your landlord to request resolution or return of your deposit.
• If unresolved, file a complaint with General Sessions Court using the correct form.

FAQ About Short-Term Vacation Rental Rights in Tennessee

1. Are short-term renters protected under Tennessee law?
   Protections depend on the county or city and your rental agreement. Many urban areas follow the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), providing some rights even for short-term stays.
2. What should I do if the landlord keeps my deposit after my stay?
   Document the unit’s condition and promptly request your deposit back in writing. If you do not receive it, you can file a small claims case with your local General Sessions Court.
3. Can I be evicted without notice from a short-term rental?
   Landlords must usually give written notice (length depends on your agreement and local rules). Immediate eviction without notice is generally not allowed, except in cases involving criminal activity or threats to safety.
4. Does my city have special rules for vacation rentals?
   Many Tennessee cities—such as Nashville—have additional short-term rental regulations. Check with your city’s Codes or Housing Department for details.
5. Where can I get legal help as a renter in Tennessee?
   The Tennessee Housing Development Agency, local legal aid offices, and General Sessions Court clerks can help you understand and assert your rights.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee Short-Term Renters

• Know whether the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act applies to your situation.
• Always insist on a written agreement and record the property’s condition.
• Deposit disputes and early eviction problems can usually be addressed in General Sessions Court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Housing Development Agency – Guidance on renting, complaints, and links to tenant resources.
• Tennessee General Sessions Court – For filing rental disputes or small claims.
• Tennessee Attorney General Consumer Protection Division – For complaints about unfair or illegal rental practices.
• Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services – Tenant Help – Free or low-cost legal aid for renters in Tennessee.

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1. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)
2. Tennessee General Sessions Court information

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