Tennessee Eviction Notice

Notice to pay rent or quit, cure a violation or vacate — with your state's exact notice period, required wording and service rules.

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Tennessee rules that this document follows

Nonpayment of rent14 days — 14-Day Notice to Pay or QuitSource: Tenn. Code § 66-28-505(a)(2) (URLTA counties); § 66-7-109(a) (non-URLTA counties)
Lease violation30 days — tenant may cureSource: Tenn. Code § 66-28-505(a)(1) (14 days to cure; termination 30 days after notice)
Unconditional quit3 days — Violence, threats to health/safety, or drug activity (3-day notice, § 66-28-517); repeat violation within 6 months (14-day notice, no cure)Source: Tenn. Code § 66-28-517; § 66-28-505(a)(1)
Permitted service methodspersonal, substituted, posting and mailing, certified mailSource: Tenn. Code § 66-28-505; § 66-7-109(d)
StatuteTennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Tenn. Code § 66-28-101 et seq.; § 66-7-109

Rules current as of 2026-09-07. Statutes change; verify before relying on them.

How to use this Eviction Notice in Tennessee

Serve the notice exactly as Tennessee law allows and count the days correctly — the deadline is the first thing a judge checks. Do not include late fees in a pay-or-quit amount unless your state permits it. If the tenant pays the full amount in time, the notice is satisfied.

Keep a copy of the notice and the signed proof of service; you will attach both to the court complaint if the tenant does not comply.

Frequently asked questions

How many days' notice for nonpayment of rent in Tennessee?

14 days (14-Day Notice to Pay or Quit), Tenn. Code § 66-28-505(a)(2) (URLTA counties); § 66-7-109(a) (non-URLTA counties). Properties covered by the CARES Act require at least 30 days.

How must the notice be delivered?

personal, substituted, posting and mailing, certified mail. Tenn. Code § 66-28-505; § 66-7-109(d) Keep the completed proof of service — the court will ask for it.

Can I change the locks or shut off utilities instead?

No. Self-help eviction is illegal in every state and exposes the landlord to damages. After the notice period expires you must file an eviction case in court.

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Other states

FormsByState provides self-help document templates and general information, not legal advice. We are not a law firm. For advice about your situation consult a licensed attorney in your state.