Tennessee does not impose rent control laws, meaning landlords have significant discretion to increase rents. However, there are legal requirements regarding notice periods and protections against discriminatory or retaliatory rent hikes that tenants should be aware of in 2025.
No Rent Control in Tennessee
Tennessee is a landlord-friendly state with no statewide rent control laws. This means landlords can raise rents without a legal cap, allowing adjustments based on market rates, property costs, or other factors. Cities and counties in Tennessee are also prohibited from enacting local rent control ordinances, leaving tenants vulnerable to potentially steep increases.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
While there is no limit on how much a landlord can raise rent, Tennessee law mandates proper notice before any increase takes effect:
- Month-to-month leases: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent.
- Year-long or fixed-term leases: Rent increases can only occur at the end of the lease term unless the lease explicitly allows mid-term adjustments. A 60-day written notice is typically required for year-long leases.
The notice must clearly state the new rental amount, the effective date of the increase, and any other relevant details. Without proper notice, the rent increase cannot legally take effect.
Protections Against Illegal Rent Increases
While landlords have broad authority to raise rents, certain actions are prohibited under Tennessee law:
- Retaliatory Rent Increases: Landlords cannot raise rent in retaliation against tenants who exercise their legal rights, such as reporting unsafe living conditions or filing complaints with housing authorities. Such actions may be considered harassment or constructive eviction.
- Discriminatory Rent Increases: Federal and state fair housing laws prohibit rent increases based on a tenant’s race, religion, national origin, gender, disability, or familial status. Discriminatory practices can lead to legal challenges and penalties.
If tenants suspect a rent increase is retaliatory or discriminatory, they can seek legal remedies through housing authorities or civil courts.
During an Active Lease
For tenants with fixed-term leases, landlords cannot raise rent during the lease term unless the lease agreement specifically allows it. This provision ensures stability for tenants throughout the lease period. Any attempt to increase rent mid-term without such a clause would be invalid.
What Tenants Can Do
Tenants facing a rent increase have several options:
- Review Lease Agreements: Check for clauses about mid-term increases or renewal terms.
- Negotiate with Landlords: Tenants may negotiate the amount or timing of an increase if they feel it is unreasonable.
- Seek Legal Advice: If a rent hike seems retaliatory or discriminatory, tenants should consult an attorney or file a complaint with housing authorities.
In 2025, Tennessee remains one of the most landlord-friendly states due to its lack of rent control laws. While landlords can freely set rental rates, they must adhere to proper notice requirements and avoid illegal practices like retaliation or discrimination. Tenants should stay informed about their lease terms and rights to navigate any rent increases effectively.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-tennessee
[2] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/tennessee-rent-control-laws/
[3] https://www.boloforms.com/signature/contracts/real-estate/notice-of-rent-increase/tennessee/
[4] https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-memphis-tn
[5] https://legaltemplates.net/form/lease-agreement/rent-increase/
