Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Tennessee

Under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act implemented in Tennessee, the landlord does not have to effect repairs unless the tenant gives a WRITTEN notice that a repair is needed. The landlord then has 14 days to correct the situation. I suggest that you review your lease for two things - (1) who is responsible for making the repairs to the air conditioner (tenant or landlord) and (2) to see how notices are to be given; i.e., hand-delivered, sent by regular first class mail, or by certified mail.

If the responsibility for the repairs to the air conditioner is that of the landlord, you then need to make a written demand for the repair and deliver it to the landlord, keeping a copy for yourself. If the lease is silent as to how notices are to be given, I suggest that you hand-deliver a copy and send one by mail. If the repairs are not accomplished within 14 days, you then have the right to terminate the lease or sue the landlord for injunctive relief (a court order directing the landlord to make the repairs) as well as monetary damages.

I realize that this does not give you immediate relief considering the current temperatures, but the Landlord and Tenant Act in Tennessee is rather specific as to rights and obligations.