Tennessee

Security deposit timelines in Tennessee

Your landlord is generally expected to return your security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within about 30 days after you move out in Tennessee. DepositsBack.app helps you take the next step: a state-specific security deposit notice sent by USPS Certified Mail, with tracking that stays attached to your case. This page summarizes general information from Tennessee Code § 66-28-301 and official state sources.

Tennessee security deposit facts
General return deadline
30 days
After tenant moves out
Relevant statute
Tennessee Code § 66-28-301
Cited in your DepositsBack.app notice
Penalty for non-compliance
Forfeiture of deductions + fees
May vary by case
Small-claims court limit
$25,000
Tennessee General Sessions Court ($25,000 — among the highest US caps; $15,000 in Anderson, Shelby and a few other counties).

What DepositsBack.app helps with in Tennessee

  • Free deadline check tied to Tennessee’s 30-day rule
  • State-specific security deposit notice citing Tennessee Code § 66-28-301, prepared and reviewed before mailing
  • USPS Certified Mail with tracking, acceptance, and delivery timestamps attached to your case
  • Response Center — paste their email/text/SMS or upload a photo of the letter; AI extracts the issues, amounts, and dates
  • Complete Case Bundle (included after delivery) with notices, mailing history, attorney handoff sheet, and official resources

Official Tennessee resources

Frequently asked
Common questions about Tennessee

The general deadline is 30 days. Landlords are generally expected to return the security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days after the tenant moves out.

You may still be able to send a notice. We show general state information and official sources so you can review your situation and decide your next step.

The Complete Case Bundle includes your notices, USPS Certified Mail history, case summary, evidence checklist, attorney handoff sheet, and official state resources — all in one downloadable ZIP.

If your landlord does not return your deposit or account for deductions, your records — DepositsBack.app notice, USPS Certified Mail delivery confirmation, and any response uploaded to your case — document the timeline. Under Tennessee Code § 66-28-301, a landlord who does not follow the inspection and itemization procedure can lose the right to withhold from the deposit; Tennessee small-claims (General Sessions) court generally hears disputes up to $25,000. You can review your situation alongside the statute and official state resources, and decide whether to consult a Tennessee attorney or proceed with self-help next steps.

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Have your lease ready? You can upload it after the check.