What Tennessee renters can do if their heating system breaks down

What This Story Is About

• In Tennessee, landlords are legally required to maintain heating systems.

Why It Matters

• If a renter experiences a broken heating system, there are a number of things they should do, including contacting their landlord in writing.

For Context

• WSMV4’s First Alert Weather Team is tracking a chilly weekend, with widespread frost possible on Sunday.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - With cold weekend temperatures ahead, residents are likely switching their heat on for the first time in months.

Hiller HVAC technician Luke Henderson said annual maintenance can help prevent problems.

“Whenever it kicks into heat for the first time, we see a plethora of things that happen,” he said.

However, the heating system is not generally a renter’s responsibility. In Tennessee, landlords are legally required to maintain heating systems.

The statewide program HELP4TN said if the heat breaks, renters should notify their landlord in writing, such as by email, letter or text. Include the date and keep a copy of the request.

If a landlord has not made a required repair two weeks after being notified, HELP4TN said renters may have options and should consult a legal aid center or lawyer. Renters may be able to pay for a repair and deduct the cost from rent in some circumstances.

You can learn more by calling HELP4TN’s free legal helpline at 844-435-7486.