Understanding Cure or Quit Notices for Tennessee Renters

If you rent in Tennessee and have received a written notice from your landlord about a lease violation, it’s important to know what it means and what steps you can take. One of the most common types of notices is a Cure or Quit Notice. This notice gives you a chance to fix (or ‘cure’) an issue—or move out (‘quit’)—before your landlord can start the eviction process. Understanding how these notices work under Tennessee law can help you protect your home and your rights.

What Is a Cure or Quit Notice in Tennessee?

A Cure or Quit Notice is a formal, written notification from your landlord stating that you have violated the terms of your lease. Under Tennessee law, this notice gives you a set time to correct the problem or move out. If you don’t respond or fix the issue in time, your landlord may file for eviction in court.

Common Reasons for a Cure or Quit Notice

• Nonpayment of rent
• Unauthorized occupants or pets
• Property damage
• Repeated noise complaints or rule violations

If you cure the problem within the notice period, your landlord cannot proceed with eviction for that specific issue.

How Long Do You Have to Respond?

The length of time your landlord must give you to cure depends on the type of problem and where you live in Tennessee:

• Urban and counties covered by the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA): Most landlords must provide a 14-day notice to cure or quit for most lease violations, and a 7-day notice for nonpayment of rent.^[1][2]
• Counties not covered by URLTA: Notice periods may differ. Always check if your county is covered by URLTA on the official Tennessee government page.

What Does a Cure or Quit Notice Include?

• Details of the alleged lease violation
• A clear statement of your right to cure (fix) the issue
• The deadline by which you must cure or vacate
• Description of what will happen if you take no action (possible eviction)

Notices must be delivered in writing, either in person or by mail.

Official Forms and How to Respond

There is currently no statewide official form number for a Cure or Quit Notice in Tennessee, but landlords are required to provide written notice following the guidelines of the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA).^[1] Many landlords use standardized templates, but the notice should always meet state requirements. If you receive such a notice, here’s how to proceed:

• Read the notice carefully: Check which lease term you’re accused of violating
• Fix (cure) the problem if possible—for example, by paying overdue rent or removing an unauthorized pet
• Communicate with your landlord in writing to document your response
• Keep copies of all communications and receipts
• If you believe the notice is wrong or retaliatory, seek legal advice or contact tenant resources (see below)

What Happens If the Problem Isn’t Fixed?

If the issue is not addressed by the deadline set in the notice, your landlord may file for eviction with the relevant court. In Tennessee, eviction matters are typically handled by the local General Sessions Court.^[3]

Relevant Legislation

• Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) covers landlord-tenant rules in many urban counties.
• Non-URLTA counties fall under Tennessee Code Title 66, Chapter 28.

Both outline the rights of renters and landlords when it comes to lease violations and eviction notices.

What to Do If You Receive a Cure or Quit Notice: Step-by-Step

Here’s a simple breakdown of what to do if you receive a Cure or Quit Notice in Tennessee:

• Document all communications. Save copies of your notice and any related emails or letters.
• Identify the type of violation and the deadline to respond.
• Cure the issue if possible—such as paying owed rent or correcting any lease violation.
• Notify your landlord in writing once the issue is resolved.
• If you disagree with the notice or have already fixed the problem, keep your evidence and be prepared to present it in court if necessary.

Taking these steps can help you avoid unnecessary eviction proceedings.

FAQs for Tennessee Renters

1. What if I can't fix the problem by the deadline?
   If you cannot cure the violation by the notice deadline, your landlord can legally file for eviction. You may still have an opportunity to explain your situation at your eviction hearing.
2. Can I be evicted without receiving a written notice first?
   No, in almost all circumstances, Tennessee law requires landlords to provide written notice before filing for eviction—except in emergencies, such as serious threats or illegal activity.
3. What if I believe the notice is incorrect or retaliatory?
   If you think the notice is false or issued in retaliation for making a legal complaint (like asking for repairs), gather your evidence and consider contacting legal aid or your local court for guidance.
4. Do I have to use an official form to respond?
   No official tenant response form is required in Tennessee. However, always respond in writing, clearly stating how you are addressing the issue. Keep a copy for your records.
5. Where can I find more information on local rental laws?
   You can visit the Tennessee Landlord-Tenant Resource Page for updated details.

Key Takeaways for Tennessee Tenants

• Cure or Quit Notices give renters a legal chance to fix a lease violation before facing eviction.
• Act quickly—your right to stay may depend on responding before the deadline on the notice.
• Keep written records of how you address any lease violations.

Understanding your rights and responsibilities is the first step toward staying secure in your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance: Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Tennessee General Sessions Courts Directory – Find your local court
• Tennessee Justice Center – Legal help for tenants
• Forms Library (Tennessee Secretary of State)

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1. See Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), Section 66-28-505
2. Landlord and Tenant Resources — Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance
3. General Sessions Courts — Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts

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