The TN Landlord Master Checklist

Payout: typically covers up to 75–80% of your rent, for a set period — commonly 6 to 12 months — while eviction plays out.
Waiting period: usually kicks in after the tenant is 30+ days in arrears; some policies have a 30–90 day waiting window.
Cost: roughly 2–7% of your annual rent (about $480–$1,200/year on a $2,000/month home).
Caps & rules: there's a maximum payout, it won't cover tenant property damage or vacancy between tenants, and you generally must actually file the eviction on time or the claim can be denied.
Single-family is eligible: these policies cover single-family rentals, one policy per lease, usually for rents between about $800 and $5,000/month.

How to use this: Each phase follows the natural order of renting out your home. Items marked TN LAW are legal requirements in Tennessee, not suggestions — don't skip them. Items marked SMART MOVE are strong best practices that protect you. When in doubt on a legal item, confirm the current rule with a Tennessee attorney or ask me.

Questions come up? I'm here as your Realtor.

Placing your tenant was the start, not the end. If something's unclear on the lease, deposits, notices, Tennessee's landlord rules, or you're just not sure which professional to call, reach out before you guess — I'm glad to talk it through and point you to the right person.

This checklist is general educational information for self-managing landlords in Tennessee, prepared by Lola Animashaun, a licensed Realtor with LPT Realty — it is not legal, tax, or financial advice, and it does not create an attorney-client or any fiduciary relationship. Tennessee landlord-tenant rules (including the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which governs counties over 75,000 residents such as Montgomery, Davidson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, Wilson, and Maury) and security-deposit requirements can change and may vary by local ordinance. Tennessee law referenced is current as of mid-2026. Confirm current requirements for your specific property with a licensed Tennessee attorney and a tax professional before acting.