Tennessee Security Deposit Law
Tennessee landlords must return security deposits within 30 days under T.C.A. § 66-28-301. Violations result in damages up to 2× the wrongfully withheld amount.
Key Facts — Tennessee
- Return deadline
- 30 days after move-out
- Governing statute
- Tennessee Code § 66-28-301
- Short citation
- T.C.A. § 66-28-301
- Penalty for violation
- damages up to 2× the wrongfully withheld amount
- Small claims court limit
- $25,000
Generate your demand letter
We generate a formal security deposit demand letter citing T.C.A. § 66-28-301 with the exact penalty language. Most landlords respond within 14 days of receiving a formal letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Tennessee?
Under T.C.A. § 66-28-301, a Tennessee landlord must return the security deposit — along with an itemized list of any deductions — within 30 days of the tenant vacating the property.
What happens if a Tennessee landlord keeps my deposit illegally?
If your landlord fails to return the deposit within 30 days without a valid reason, damages up to 2× the wrongfully withheld amount. You can pursue this in Tennessee small claims court (limit: $25,000).
Can a landlord in Tennessee deduct for normal wear and tear?
No. Tennessee law, like all US states, prohibits landlords from deducting for normal wear and tear — routine scuffing, minor carpet wear, and faded paint are the landlord's cost of doing business, not the tenant's.
How do I send a security deposit demand letter in Tennessee?
Generate a demand letter citing T.C.A. § 66-28-301, sign it, and send via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt to your landlord. The certified mail receipt creates a legal paper trail and proves delivery. Give the landlord 14 days to respond before filing in small claims court.
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