Tennessee Rent Late Fee Laws
Quick answer
In Tennessee, the maximum legal rent late fee is governed by Tenn. Code § 66-28-201(d): Late fee capped at 10% of the amount past due, charged only after a 5-day grace period (the fee can't be charged if the 5th day is a weekend/holiday and rent is paid the next business day).
Maximum late fee
$150.00 *
Grace period
5 days
Statute
Tenn. Code § 66-28-201(d)
* shown for a $1500.00 rent, 10 days late. Use the calculator for your numbers.
Late-Fee Compliance
Check the legal maximum late fee, grace period & cap for all 50 states + DC — before you charge.
Informational only — not legal advice. Late-fee rules change and local ordinances may be stricter than the state rule. The fee must also be stated in the signed lease and, where no statutory cap exists, be a reasonable estimate of actual damages. Verify against current law before charging. Legal data last reviewed 2026-01.
Example
On $1500.00 monthly rent that's 10 days late in Tennessee, the maximum legal late fee is $150.00.
Tennessee late fee FAQ
What is the maximum late fee a landlord can charge in Tennessee?
Late fee capped at 10% of the amount past due, charged only after a 5-day grace period (the fee can't be charged if the 5th day is a weekend/holiday and rent is paid the next business day). For example, on $1500.00 rent that's about $150.00.
Is there a grace period for late rent in Tennessee?
Yes — by statute, Tennessee provides a 5-day grace period before a late fee may be charged.
Is a late fee legal if it isn't in the lease?
Generally no. In every state a late fee must be disclosed in the signed lease to be enforceable, regardless of any cap.
Other states
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Start managing rent →Informational only — not legal advice. Late-fee rules change and local ordinances may be stricter than the state rule. The fee must also be stated in the signed lease and, where no statutory cap exists, be a reasonable estimate of actual damages. Verify against current law before charging. Legal data last reviewed 2026-01.