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Know Your Rights: Housing Support for Domestic Violence Survivors in Davidson County

Every person deserves to feel safe in their home. For survivors of domestic violence, that safety can sometimes mean having to leave quickly—and knowing your rights can make all the difference.


In Davidson County, if you are experiencing domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault, you may have the right to break your lease without paying costly termination fees. Tennessee law allows survivors in private rentals to end their lease early by providing a written notice to their landlord that includes:

  1. A statement that you or someone in your household is a victim of abuse, assault, or stalking.
  2. A planned move-out date within the next 30 days, approved by your landlord.
  3. A request for “release from the lease agreement.”
4. Documentation, such as an Order of Protection or a criminal charge report from the past 60 days.

Your landlord is legally required to keep this information confidential unless you give written permission to share it. While you’ll still be responsible for rent due during the month you leave and any previous rent owed, you cannot be charged early termination fees.


For Survivors in Federally Assisted Housing


Additional protections apply if you live in Section 8 housing, public housing, or use a housing choice voucher. Under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), you cannot be denied or removed from housing because of the abuse you’ve experienced. You may also request to transfer to a new unit or remove your abuser from the lease.


To prove eligibility for these protections, you can:

  • Fill out HUD Form 5382 (a self-certification of violence),

  • Submit a signed statement from a service provider or attorney,

  • Or share a police or court document.


All documentation is confidential and cannot be shared without your written consent unless required by law.


You Are Not Alone


There are organizations ready to help you navigate these steps and find safe housing.


These groups all provide shelter, counseling, and legal support. You can also reach out to the Tennessee Statewide Crisis Line at 1-866-811-7473 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.


If You or Someone You Know is Facing Housing Discrimination, Call:


AMAC Hotline: 615-988-6460
Nashville Hispanic Bar Association: 615-701-7957

Visit www.amactn.org/tenant-rights-nashville to access free resources in 8 different languages, including Arabic, Kurdish, Somali, and Spanish.


Whether you’re looking for help or navigating rent support programs like the ERTC, AMAC is here to support you and your family. Knowledge is power—know your rights, protect your home. No one should have to choose between safety and stability

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