Just cause eviction rules in Memphis, TN — sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances — list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Memphis does not have a just-cause eviction ordinance. Tennessee follows standard landlord-tenant law under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (TCA Title 66, Chapter 28). Landlords may decline to renew a lease for any lawful reason. Evictions for nonpayment require a 14-day notice under TCA 66-28-505. Month-to-month tenancies can be terminated with 30 days written notice without stating cause. Tennessee law does not require landlords to provide a reason for non-renewal.
Memphis follows state eviction procedures. Landlords must provide proper written notice before filing eviction actions. For month-to-month tenancies, typically 30 to 60 days notice is required for no-cause termination. Fixed-term leases end on their termination date. Eviction for cause (non-payment, lease violation) follows faster timelines. Retaliatory and discriminatory evictions are prohibited under state and federal law. Self-help evictions such as changing locks or shutting off utilities are illegal.
Illegal self-help eviction: tenant damages and penalties. Retaliatory eviction: prohibited, tenant may counterclaim. Improper notice: eviction case dismissed.
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