Sen. Joey Hensley Highlights New Tennessee Property Rights Laws

State Sen. Joey Hensley has released another legislative update highlighting property rights measures approved during the 2026 session of the Tennessee General Assembly.

Among the measures is a new law establishing clearer timelines for property owners seeking to reclaim property following a tax sale. The law provides a one-year redemption period for properties with three years of unpaid taxes and a 90-day period for delinquencies exceeding three years.

Lawmakers also approved legislation aimed at preventing deed fraud by requiring deeds to be prepared by qualified individuals, such as licensed attorneys, title agents, or other authorized parties. An affidavit must also verify the proper preparation, signing, and notarization of the deed.

Another measure expands homestead protections for adult children with developmental or intellectual disabilities, helping them retain a portion of a home’s equity following the death of a parent or head of household.

Hensley also highlighted legislation expanding the circumstances under which Tennesseans may use force to defend property. According to the update, the law allows deadly force in limited circumstances involving serious property crimes or the recovery of property taken by force when a person reasonably believes immediate action is necessary and no safe alternative exists.

Lawmakers also strengthened penalties for vehicle and bicycle trespassing, including repeated incidents involving ATVs on private property. The law increases penalties and allows vehicles to be seized from repeat offenders.

Other property-related measures highlighted by Hensley address statewide property reappraisal standards, construction defect liability, transparency in real estate closings, legal property descriptions based on licensed surveys, the installation of electric vehicle charging stations on private property or designated parking spaces governed by HOAs, and expanded reverse mortgage options for older homeowners.