Can my landlord evict me during the semester?

Tennessee law requires written notice and court process for eviction. For late rent, you must get a 14-day notice before further action.

What do I do if repairs are not made in my student apartment?

Provide written notice to your landlord. If repairs aren’t made, you may be able to withhold rent or end your lease—check official Tennessee resources.

Can my landlord keep my security deposit?

They can only keep the deposit for actual damages or unpaid rent. A written, itemized list of deductions is required within 30 days of moving out.

Are students covered by the same tenant laws as other renters?

Yes, students renting off-campus (not in university dorms) get the same protections as all renters under Tennessee state law.

Can I break my lease if I transfer or drop out?

No, student status does not automatically let you break a lease. You remain responsible unless your lease allows for replacement or subletting.

Tennessee Student Housing Rights: Key Protections for College Renters

Special Housing Types & Situations Tennessee published June 21, 2025

College life in Tennessee often means renting off-campus housing, whether it's an apartment, a shared house, or university-owned property. While moving out on your own is exciting, knowing your rights as a student renter is crucial for protecting yourself from issues like eviction, unfair fees, and unsafe conditions. This guide covers student housing rights for college renters in Tennessee, referencing current state laws and official resources.

Understanding Student Housing: What Counts?

Student housing includes:

Off-campus apartments or houses leased specifically to students
University or college-owned dormitories (with some differences in rights)
Private rentals with student tenants

While university-owned dorms have unique rules, most student renters in Tennessee are covered by statewide residential tenancy laws.

Your Key Rights as a Student Renter in Tennessee

Right to a Habitable Home: Landlords must provide safe, clean, and functional housing, including working heat, hot water, and necessary repairs.
Right to Privacy: Landlords must give at least 24 hours' notice before entering unless it's an emergency.
Right against Discrimination: Federal and Tennessee state law prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. Schools cannot share your immigration status with landlords.
Right to Security Deposit Return: After you move out, landlords have 30 days to return your security deposit or provide a written itemization of deductions.
Protection Against Unlawful Eviction: You can't be evicted without proper written notice and due process.

These core rights come from the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), which applies in Tennessee counties with populations over 75,000.^[1] For other counties, some protections may differ—check your county's rules or contact a local housing authority.

Special Concerns for Student Renters

Leases and Roommates: Read your lease carefully. All roommates should sign the agreement, so everyone's rights and responsibilities are clear.
Breaking a Lease: There's no automatic early release for reasons like dropping out or transferring. Some landlords allow a "replacement tenant"—get this in writing if offered.
Rental Increases: In Tennessee, there is no statewide rent control. Your landlord can raise rent once your lease ends, but must give at least 30 days' written notice if you're on a month-to-month lease.

Repair Issues and Unsafe Conditions

If something breaks or your unit becomes unsafe, such as a broken lock, plumbing, heating/cooling, or pest problems, state law gives you the right to request repairs. Always notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy for your records.

If a landlord does not make essential repairs within a reasonable time after written notice, you may be able to make repairs and deduct costs, or even terminate your lease, under Tennessee law.

Official Forms for Tennessee Renters

Notice to Landlord of Noncompliance (no form number): This is a written notice you give your landlord when requesting repairs. You can use a simple letter stating the problem and requesting a fix. Example: "On April 5, I emailed my landlord about the broken heater. If not fixed in 14 days, I may exercise my legal rights." Use this any time a landlord is not providing required maintenance. Find guidance on letters from the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) - Tenant Landlord Laws.
Notice to Cure or Quit (Eviction Notice): Landlords must provide this written notice before proceeding with eviction. For nonpayment of rent, Tennessee requires a 14-day written notice under the URLTA. See Uniform Affidavit of Complaint (Detainer Warrant) if the matter goes to court.
Uniform Affidavit of Complaint (Detainer Warrant): This is the official form a landlord must file in court to start an eviction process. Renters will receive a copy and must respond before a court hearing. If you receive this, review the "How To Respond" section below. Official Detainer Warrant Form

Tenant-Landlord Disputes: Who Handles Them?

Housing disputes such as repairs, deposits, or eviction in Tennessee are managed by the local General Sessions Court. For further assistance and complaint processes, visit the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance - Renters portal.

Relevant Legislation

Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Tenn. Code Ann. § 66-28-101 and following)

Always refer to these official resources for up-to-date guidelines.

FAQ: Tennessee Student Housing Rights

Can my landlord evict me during the semester? Tennessee law requires written notice and court process for any eviction. If you pay rent late, you should receive a 14-day written notice first. Eviction for other lease violations also requires written notice.
What do I do if repairs are not made in my student apartment? Give your landlord written notice describing the issue and requesting repairs. If not fixed in a reasonable time, you may have additional legal options, such as withholding rent or terminating your lease—visit the Tennessee Renters' Portal for steps.
When can my landlord keep my security deposit? Only for damages beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent/fees. They must provide a written, itemized list of deductions within 30 days after you move out.
Are students covered by the same tenant laws as other renters? Yes, if you rent off-campus (not in college-owned dorms), most standard renter protections apply under Tennessee law.
Can I break my lease if I transfer or drop out? Student status alone doesn't grant this right. You are still responsible for the lease unless your landlord allows a sublet or replacement tenant. Always check your lease and discuss with your landlord in writing.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Student Housing Rights

Student renters in Tennessee have legal rights to safe housing, proper notice for eviction, and deposit protection.
Always use written communication and official forms when resolving disputes.
Consult official resources and the General Sessions Court for unresolved issues.

Staying informed and organized is your best protection as a student renter in Tennessee.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance - Renters: Tenant rights, complaint links, and legal information
Tennessee General Sessions Court: Handles landlord-tenant disputes including evictions
Tennessee Housing Development Agency: State-level rental assistance and housing programs
Your County Clerk's Office: For local tenant support
University legal aid or student affairs: Ask about on-campus tenant legal clinics

[1] See Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)
[2] Official Detainer Warrant Form (Uniform Affidavit of Complaint), Tennessee Courts
[3] Tenant-Landlord Guidance, TN Department of Commerce & Insurance