Security deposit law · Tennessee

Tennessee Security Deposit Law: How to Get Your Deposit Back

If you rent in Tennessee, the law gives you specific rights when you move out — a deadline for your landlord to return your deposit, rules on deductions, and a path to push back if they don't. Here's exactly how it works, and how to protect yourself.

Return deadlineNo fixed statutory deadline
Governing statuteTenn. Code § 66-28-301
Deposit limitNo statutory limit
Itemized deductionsRequired
Interest on depositNot required by statute
Last reviewedMay 2026

Tennessee-specific rules to know

URLTA applies only in counties with population over 75,000 (most recent federal census). No fixed statutory deadline to return deposit — Tenn. Code § 66-28-301 contains no fixed return deadline. Landlord must send written notification of refund amount to tenant's last known address; if no response within 60 days, landlord may retain unreturned balance. Landlord may recover additional physical damage costs only if discovered within 30 days of tenant vacating or 7 days after new tenant takes possession. Itemised damage list with repair cost estimates required at move-out inspection. No deposit cap.

What Tennessee law requires your landlord to do

Under Tenn. Code § 66-28-301, a Tennessee landlord generally must follow the statute's return and notice requirements and provide a written, itemized list of any amounts withheld. They may not deduct for ordinary wear and tear — only for damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent, or other charges the lease and statute allow.

What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in Tennessee

  1. 1. Know your deadline

    In Tennessee, the return window is No fixed statutory deadline (Tenn. Code § 66-28-301). Mark the date you moved out and count forward.

  2. 2. Send a written demand

    Email and mail a dated letter requesting your full deposit, referencing the requirements under Tenn. Code § 66-28-301. Keep proof of delivery. Renter's Vault generates a Tennessee-specific letter with the right statute citation filled in.

  3. 3. Gather your evidence

    Move-in and move-out photos with timestamps and location are the difference between your word and theirs. Attach your photo record and any move-in checklist.

  4. 4. Escalate to small claims

    If the landlord misses the deadline or won't respond, you can file in small claims court. Bring your dated demand letter and photo evidence.

Free Tennessee dispute-letter guide

A clear, statute-cited demand letter resolves most deposit disputes without ever going to court. Renter's Vault builds a Tennessee letter for you — pre-filled with Tenn. Code § 66-28-301, your deadline, and your deductions — in three escalating versions (first request, formal demand, and notice of intent to file).

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Tennessee security deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Tennessee?

Tennessee does not set a single fixed number of days. Under Tenn. Code § 66-28-301, the landlord must follow the statute's notice and itemization requirements; review your lease and the statute for the timeline that applies to you.

What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in Tennessee?

Send a written demand letter that cites Tenn. Code § 66-28-301 and the deadline, keep copies of all communication and your move-in/move-out photos, and if that fails you can file in small claims court. Many states allow extra damages when a landlord withholds a deposit in bad faith.

Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge for a deposit in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, the statutory deposit limit is: No statutory limit. Always confirm against the current statute, since limits and exceptions change.

Are there any special deposit rules in Tennessee?

Yes. Notable Tennessee rules: URLTA applies only in counties with population over 75,000 (most recent federal census). No fixed statutory deadline to return deposit — Tenn. Code § 66-28-301 contains no fixed return deadline. Landlord must send written notification of refund amount to tenant's last known address; if no response within 60 days, landlord may retain unreturned balance. Landlord may recover additional physical damage costs only if discovered within 30 days of tenant vacating or 7 days after new tenant takes possession. Itemised damage list with repair cost estimates required at move-out inspection. No deposit cap.

This page is general information for tenants, not legal advice, and laws change. Always confirm the current text of Tenn. Code § 66-28-301 or consult a local attorney or tenants' rights organization for your situation. Last reviewed May 2026.