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SB 605

Real Property - As introduced, extends from 10 to 20 days, the time within which a non-contracting spouse must serve the prime contractor with written notice of that spouse's objection to a contract for improving real property after learning of the contract when the contract is made with a husband or a wife who is not separated and living apart from that person's spouse, and the property is owned by the other spouse or by both spouses, in order to avoid the other spouse being deemed the agent of the objecting spouse. - Amends TCA Title 66, Chapter 11.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Bailey

Doubles deadline for spouses to object to home improvement contracts from 10 to 20 days, reducing risk of unintended financial liability on jointly-owned Tennessee property.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Commerce and Labor Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 605

Legislative bill overview

SB 605 doubles the notification period that a non-contracting spouse must use to formally object to home improvement contracts made by their spouse. Currently, this objection must be served within 10 days of learning about the contract; the bill extends this to 20 days. This applies specifically when one spouse contracts for property improvements on real property owned by the other spouse or jointly owned property without the other spouse's involvement.

Why is this important

This change affects spousal property rights and financial liability in Tennessee. Spouses can currently become financially liable for home improvement contracts they didn't authorize if they don't object quickly enough. Extending the objection window provides more practical time for spouses to discover contracts and formally respond, potentially preventing unintended financial obligations on jointly-owned property.

Potential points of contention

  • Contractor concern: Home improvement contractors may face increased uncertainty about payment responsibility since they have a longer period where a spouse's liability status remains undetermined, potentially complicating financing and payment expectations.
  • Marital dynamics: The extended timeline could be viewed either as protective (giving spouses adequate discovery time) or as enabling (allowing spouses more time to strategically object to legitimate household improvements).
  • Administrative burden: Contractors and title companies must track longer notification periods, creating extended administrative complexity compared to the current 10-day standard.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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