Getting Your Security Deposit Back: What Renters in Davidson County Need to Know

Every renter—no matter their income, background, or language—deserves to feel confident navigating housing. One of the most common questions we hear from tenants is: “How do I make sure I get my security deposit back?”

If you’re preparing to move out, here’s what you need to know to protect your deposit and your rights.

What Is a Security Deposit?

A security deposit is money your landlord holds while you live in a rental unit. It’s usually equal to one month’s rent, though there’s no legal cap in Tennessee. That deposit is meant to cover:

• Unpaid rent or utility bills,

• Repairs for damages you (or your guests) caused.

Landlords must keep your deposit in a separate bank account. If they don’t, they are legally not allowed to keep your money when you move out.

What to Do Before You Move

60 Days Before Moving Out

• Check your lease for any specific rules about giving notice.

• Email your landlord: Tell them you plan to move, give your forwarding address, ask for your security deposit to be returned, and request a walk-through inspection before your move-out date.

  
  

Before Your Last Day

• Pay all rent and utility bills.

• Clean thoroughly—sweep, dust, take out trash, and double-check closets, attics, garages, and storage areas.

On Move-Out Day

• Move everything out—if you leave items behind, you may be charged.

• Take photos and videos of the empty space.

• Return your keys.

The Walk-Through Inspection

You have the right to ask for a walk-through with your landlord within 4 days of moving out. During this inspection, your landlord might write a list of charges or repairs. If you don’t agree:

Do not sign their list. Instead, make your own list, sign and date it, and give them a copy.

After You Move Out

Your landlord must:

• Send a written list of any charges within 30 days,

• Return your deposit if there’s no damage and you’ve paid what you owe.

What If They Keep Your Deposit?

If your landlord refuses to return your money—or ignores you—you have the right to take them to court. Visit help4tn.org to speak with a legal professional and learn how to file.

Also, make sure you understand what kind of payment you gave: If it’s called a non-refundable move-in fee in your lease, your landlord isn’t required to return it.

If You or Someone You Know is Facing Housing Discrimination, Call:

AMAC Hotline: 615-988-6460

Nashville Hispanic Bar Association: 615-701-7957

Visit www.amactn.org/tenant-rights-nashville to access free resources in 8 different languages, including Arabic, Kurdish, Somali, and Spanish.

Whether you’re looking for help with housing repairs or navigating rent support programs like the ERTC, AMAC is here to support you and your family. Knowledge is power—know your rights, protect your home.