Understanding Partial Rent Payments and Eviction in Tennessee

If you’re a renter in Tennessee and struggling to pay full rent, you might wonder whether making a partial rent payment can help you avoid eviction or lead to other risks. Knowing your rights and responsibilities is crucial for protecting yourself and your home. The following guide explains what happens when you pay partial rent in Tennessee, how landlords may respond, and what official forms and legal protections apply under state law.

What Is a Partial Rent Payment?

A partial rent payment is when you pay only part of the full rent due to your landlord by the rent deadline. This might happen if you are experiencing a temporary financial setback but want to show good faith by paying what you can.

Does A Partial Rent Payment Prevent Eviction in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, making a partial rent payment does not automatically prevent your landlord from beginning eviction proceedings. Under the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, a landlord can legally start the eviction process if the full rent is not paid, unless the landlord specifically agrees in writing to accept the partial payment as full settlement for that period.¹

• If your landlord accepts a partial payment without written agreement, they still have the right to move forward with eviction for the unpaid balance.
• If your landlord accepts a partial payment and signs an agreement giving you extra time, this may delay or stop eviction for that month.

Always keep clear records of what you paid and when, and consider discussing a written payment plan if you are unable to pay rent in full.

Official Forms and What to Expect

In most Tennessee counties, landlords must give you written notice before evicting for unpaid rent. Here are the key notices and forms involved:

• 14-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit (no official statewide form): Landlords can serve this written notice when rent isn’t paid. It gives you 14 days to pay the full balance (not just part) or vacate the property.
  Example: If you owe $900 but pay $300, your landlord may still send the 14-Day Notice for the remaining $600.
  See the relevant Tennessee rent notice law.
• Detainer Warrant (Eviction Complaint): If rent is not paid after the notice, your landlord can file this complaint in General Sessions Court. This is the official step to begin eviction.
  General Sessions Civil Forms (Detainer Warrant) – Look for "Detainer Warrant".
  Practical example: If you receive a Detainer Warrant, you must appear at a court hearing where you can explain your situation or show proof of payment.

If you disagree with the eviction or think your landlord did not follow the law, you may file a response or appear in court to share your side of the story. The Tennessee General Sessions Courts handle these cases statewide. Find your local court at the Tennessee General Sessions Courts website.

Landlord Acceptance of Partial Rent: Key Considerations

The main legal risk: Even if your landlord takes a partial rent payment, unless there's a written agreement, they still have the right to demand the rest and may continue with eviction.

• Some landlords may have you sign a "Partial Payment Agreement." Only this official agreement can pause eviction for that month.
• Keep receipts and all communications. Document every payment and conversation.

Eviction Process Timeline for Unpaid or Partial Rent

Eviction for non-payment in Tennessee usually follows these steps:

• Rent not paid on time
• Landlord serves a 14-Day Notice to Pay or Quit (written notice)
• If rent remains unpaid, landlord files a Detainer Warrant (eviction case)
• Court hearing scheduled (usually within weeks)
• If judgment is for the landlord, tenant may be ordered to leave; law enforcement could remove tenant if home is not vacated voluntarily

Act quickly if you receive any court papers or notices. Paying the full amount owed before your court date may stop the eviction in many cases.

What Rights Do Tennessee Renters Have?

Tennessee renters have protection against illegal evictions, and landlords must follow strict notice and court procedures. You always have the right to receive proper written notice before eviction for non-payment, and access to a court hearing to present your side.²

Where to Find the Law and Tribunal

All these requirements and your rights are established in the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. The courts responsible for residential eviction disputes are the Tennessee General Sessions Courts.

FAQs About Partial Rent and Eviction in Tennessee

1. Does a landlord have to accept partial rent in Tennessee?
   Landlords are not legally required to accept a partial rent payment. If they do accept, unless a written agreement is made, you may still face eviction for the unpaid balance.
2. What happens after a partial rent payment if I still owe money?
   Your landlord can send a 14-Day Notice to Pay or Quit for the amount still owed. If this is not paid in full, they can file for eviction.
3. Can I stop an eviction by paying part of the rent after receiving a notice?
   Partial rent alone will not stop eviction; you must pay the full amount specified in the notice to cancel the eviction process.
4. Where do I go if I receive a detainer warrant (eviction notice)?
   You will need to appear at your local Tennessee General Sessions Court on the date listed in your court documents.
5. Is there a form to request more time if I can't pay full rent?
   No specific statewide form exists; however, some landlord-tenant payment plan agreements may be used if both parties agree. Always keep written records.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Partial rent payments do not guarantee protection from eviction in Tennessee.
• Landlords can still move forward with eviction unless a written partial payment agreement is in place.
• Get all agreements in writing and respond quickly to any legal notice or court paperwork.

Understanding these steps can help you plan and protect your rights if you’re unable to pay full rent.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance - Renter Resources
• Tennessee Legal Aid – Free legal help for low-income tenants facing eviction.
• Tennessee General Sessions Courts directory – Find your local housing court.
• Read the Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (PDF)

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1. Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act § 66-28-504, § 66-28-505
2. Tennessee General Sessions Courts

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