Lease Agreement Utility Changes

Summary

In Tennessee, landlords cannot unilaterally change lease terms, including utility responsibilities, during an active lease period. Tenants can refuse such changes and should inform landlords about their rights. If disputes arise, tenants can seek advice from local tenant rights associations or legal aid, and if necessary, take the issue to court.

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Lease agreement
Hello ****, I'd be happy to help you with your lease agreement concerns. Could you please provide more details about your issue? Are you a tenant or a landlord? What specific aspect of the lease agreement are you having trouble with?
Landlord is trying to change the responsible party for utilities
Hello ****, are you currently under a lease agreement? If so, in Tennessee, a landlord generally cannot change the terms of the lease agreement, including responsibility for utilities, until the lease period has ended. Can you confirm if your lease is still active?
yes
In Tennessee, if you're currently under a lease agreement, your landlord cannot unilaterally change the terms, including shifting responsibility for utilities. You have the right to refuse such changes until the lease period ends.
how would I fight the change
You can:
- Refuse the change and continue following the original lease terms.
- Inform your landlord about the Tenant's Rights in Tennessee.
- Seek advice from a local tenant’s rights association or legal aid.
- If necessary, take the issue to court.