Tennessee renters advised on steps if heating system breaks during cold weather

As cold weather approaches, Tennessee residents are turning on their heating systems for the first time in months, according to WSMV and WBBJTV reports.

Luke Henderson, an HVAC technician with Hiller HVAC, noted that many heating system issues arise when the heat is turned on after a long period of disuse, emphasizing the importance of annual maintenance.

In Tennessee, landlords are legally required to maintain heating systems, and renters are advised to notify their landlords in writing—via email, letter, or text—if the heating system breaks, according to the statewide program HELP4TN.

Renters should include the date in their notification and keep a copy of the request. If the landlord does not make the necessary repairs within two weeks, renters may have options, including consulting a legal aid center or lawyer.

HELP4TN also stated that in some cases, renters might pay for repairs themselves and deduct the cost from their rent. For more information, renters can contact HELP4TN’s free legal helpline at 844-435-7486.