Tennessee House Bill HB1305

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Failed: 3/21/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 66, relative to landlord obligations.

Impact

The implementation of HB1305 will directly affect statutory requirements for landlords in Tennessee. By mandating that they provide vital contact information, the bill ensures that tenants have the necessary tools to reach out for assistance or report issues regarding their rental properties. Furthermore, if landlords fail to disclose this information, they become liable for fines assessed per day of non-compliance, which can accrue substantially. This provision may encourage landlords to maintain better communication with their tenants and comply with legal obligations more diligently.

Summary

House Bill 1305 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 66, which pertains to landlord obligations. The bill mandates that landlords must provide specific information to tenants at the onset of a tenancy. This includes the landlord's contact information such as name, telephone number, and email addresses, as well as the contact information for an authorized agent if applicable. The intent is to enhance transparency and accountability in rental agreements, providing tenants with essential information for communication and legal processes.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB1305 revolve around the enforcement of the new disclosure requirements. Landlords may argue that the added obligations could impose an unnecessary administrative burden and may complicate the rental process. Conversely, tenant advocates support the measure as a means to safeguard tenant rights and ensure that renters are not left without recourse or contact in case of emergencies. The financial penalties for landlords add another layer of debate, as landlords and property managers could find themselves in legal disputes stemming from non-compliance with these new rules.