Tennessee is known as a landlord-friendly state, and its rent increase laws reflect that. If you plan to rent in Tennessee in 2025, understanding how rent can be raised, what notice landlords must give, and your rights as a tenant is crucial for navigating your rental agreement confidently.
No Limits on Rent Increases, But Notice is Required
Unlike some states, Tennessee does not impose any cap on how much landlords can increase rent. There are no statewide rent control laws limiting the amount or frequency of rent hikes, nor can local cities or counties enact their own rent control policies. This means landlords have broad discretion to raise rents as much as they want.
However, landlords must provide proper written notice of any rent increase before it can take effect:
For month-to-month leases, landlords are required to give at least 30 days’ written notice before the new rent takes effect.
For fixed-term leases (such as a one-year lease), rent cannot be increased during the term unless the lease specifically allows it. Otherwise, landlords must give notice before the end of the lease term if they want to raise rent when the lease renews (typically 60 days’ notice for annual leases).
This notice requirement gives tenants reasonable time to plan for higher rent or seek alternative housing.
Restrictions on Illegal Rent Increases
While landlords can generally raise rent without limit, Tennessee law prohibits rent increases that are:
Discriminatory based on race, religion, disability, national origin, sex, or familial status (in accordance with the Fair Housing Act).
Retaliatory — for example, increasing rent to punish tenants for filing complaints or exercising legal rights.
If you believe a rent increase is discriminatory or retaliatory, you may be able to challenge it legally.
Rent Increases During Leases
For tenants with a fixed-term lease, rent typically cannot be raised until the lease ends unless there is a provision in the lease agreement allowing increases during the term. If rent is raised improperly during the lease, the increase may not be enforceable.
For month-to-month tenancies, landlords can increase rent with proper 30-day notice, and the increase goes into effect at the start of the next rental period after notice.
Market Conditions and Reasonableness
Though Tennessee law gives landlords freedom to set rent increases, it’s generally in their interest to keep increases reasonable and aligned with local market rates. Excessive increases might lead to vacancies or legal scrutiny if deemed retaliatory or discriminatory.
In 2025, typical rent increases nationwide range from 5% to 15%, depending on location and property updates. Keeping open communication with your landlord about rent changes can help maintain a good rental relationship.
Summary of Tenant Rights and Landlord Requirements in Tennessee
There is no cap on how much rent can be increased statewide.
Written notice is mandatory: 30 days for month-to-month leases; typically 60 days before lease renewal for fixed terms.
Rent cannot be raised during a fixed lease term unless the lease allows it.
Discriminatory and retaliatory rent increases are illegal.
Tenants can reject rent increases on month-to-month leases by choosing not to renew and moving out.
Always review your lease for terms about rent adjustments and keep written communication regarding any increases.
Understanding these key points helps prepare tenants for rent changes under Tennessee law in 2025 and ensures landlords follow proper procedures.
If you’re facing a rent increase that seems unfair or improperly noticed, consult local tenant resources or legal advice to protect your rights.
This knowledge empowers Tennessee tenants to plan financially and negotiate more effectively in the evolving rental market.
Sources
[1] https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-tennessee
[2] https://www.doorloop.com/laws/tennessee-landlord-tenant-rights
[3] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/tennessee-rent-control-laws/
[4] https://www.avail.co/education/articles/tennessee-landlord-tenant-laws-overview-for-landlords
[5] https://www.nashville-property.management/blog/rent-increase-laws-in-nashville-tennessee
[6] https://www.steadily.com/blog/mid-term-rental-laws-regulations-tennessee
