Evicting a bad tenant in Tennessee costs ~$6,800.
How Tennessee handles evictions
URLTA applies in larger counties.
Most of that loss is preventable.
Bad tenants almost always leave a paper trail — the problem is that most landlords don't check carefully. Here's what a proper screening catches before you sign the lease.
Tennessee eviction cost FAQ
How much does it cost to evict someone in Tennessee?
A typical contested eviction in Tennessee costs around $6,800 all-in: a $120 filing fee, roughly 1.2 months of lost rent ($1,680 at a typical $1,400/mo), plus legal fees, property damage beyond the deposit, and turnover costs. Uncontested cases cost less.
How long does an eviction take in Tennessee?
About 35 days (~5 weeks) on average from notice to lockout. URLTA applies in larger counties.
How much is the eviction filing fee in Tennessee?
$120, filed with the General Sessions Court. Service, writ, and execution fees are typically extra and vary by county/court.
What court handles evictions in Tennessee?
Evictions in Tennessee are handled by the General Sessions Court.
Sources & methodology
Filing fees and timelines reflect the General Sessions Court and public tribunal fee schedules; cost figures are estimates compiled from public court schedules, Eviction Lab, and state guides — actual costs vary by county, contest status, and market conditions.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney for your specific situation.