Saint Paul, MN asked in Landlord - Tenant and Small Claims for Tennessee

Q: Should one dispute excessive move-out fees in small claims court?

I recently moved out of an apartment in Tennessee. Despite multiple requests, I was never given a walk-through. In addition, we left 2 weeks before our lease ended due to fear of COVID-19, and the fact that we did not feel our apartment was following CDC Guidelines.

Despite this, the apartment is charging me excessive move-out fees that I don't feel are warranted. Should I take them to small claims court?

I now live in another state, would I need to file in the state I moved FROM? or can I file in the state I moved to?

Thank you in advance for your time and expertise.

1 Lawyer Answer
Anthony M. Avery
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Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Knoxville, TN
  • Licensed in Tennessee

A: Venue will basically be the County and State of the leasehold. If you do not pay what is demanded, then the landlord can sue you in that County, but will have to try to collect any Judgment against you. If there was a security deposit, than that might be something to sue for.

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