Tennessee Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Tenn. Code §66-28-301 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the premises without negligence, carelessness, or abuse.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to wrongfully withheld amount plus court costs and attorney fees under Tenn. Code §66-28-301.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: No statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $25,000
Additional Protections
- Landlord must return deposit within 30 days (or 60 days if written in lease)
- Landlord must send damages list to tenant's forwarding or last known address
What Your Tennessee Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Tennessee's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Tenn. Code §66-28-301 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Tennessee law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the premises without negligence, carelessness, or abuse...
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Tennessee Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Tennessee?
Under Tenn. Code §66-28-301, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Tennessee landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Tennessee, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Tennessee?
In Tennessee: Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the premises without negligence, carelessness, or abuse. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Tennessee landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to wrongfully withheld amount plus court costs and attorney fees under Tenn. Code §66-28-301. You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Tennessee?
Yes. Tennessee small claims court handles cases up to $25,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Tennessee?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Tennessee-specific dispute letter citing Tenn. Code §66-28-301 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.