Who enforces electricity and gas safety issues for renters?

City code enforcement handles property habitability; the municipal utility handles gas and electrical safety on utility systems and service lines.

What if my landlord does not fix a dangerous electrical or gas problem?

File a complaint with city code enforcement and report immediate hazards to the utility and 911 if life or property is at risk.

Can I withhold rent for unsafe utilities?

State and local rules on withholding rent vary; consult tenant resources or legal aid before withholding rent.

Electricity & Gas Safety Complaints - New South Memphis

Utilities and Infrastructure Tennessee 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026

New South Memphis, Tennessee renters can report electricity or gas safety hazards to the utility and city code authorities to protect health and habitability. This guide explains who enforces safety, how to report immediate dangers, how to file a formal complaint with the city, and what to expect after you file.

Before you report

Assess immediate danger: if you smell gas, see a spark, or detect an electrical fire risk, evacuate and call 911 first. For non-emergency hazards, document the problem with photos, dates, times, and any communication with your landlord or property manager.

If you smell gas or see flames, leave the building and call 911 immediately.

How to file

Renters should alert their landlord in writing first. If the landlord does not act promptly, file a complaint with city code enforcement and report dangerous utility conditions to the municipal utility.

Notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy.
Report gas or electrical emergencies to the utility (follow utility emergency guidance).
Submit a formal complaint to city code enforcement via the online portal or complaint form: City of Memphis Code Enforcement^[1].

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of hazardous utility conditions and rental habitability in New South Memphis is handled by the municipal code enforcement division and the municipal utility where applicable. Specific fine amounts and escalation for electricity or gas safety violations are not specified on the cited city page; see the referenced enforcement office for details and any published fee schedules.

Fines: not specified on the cited page.
Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
Non-monetary sanctions: orders to repair, abatement notices, permit suspensions, seizure of unsafe equipment, or referral to court are possible depending on the violation and evidence.
Enforcer: City of Memphis Code Enforcement handles property/habitability code violations; the municipal utility handles utility-safety incidents and may disconnect or secure service when hazards exist.
Appeals and review: appeal routes and statutory time limits are not specified on the cited page; contact the enforcing office for appeal procedures and deadlines.

City enforcement offices can issue repair orders and refer cases to housing court if owners fail to comply.

Applications & Forms

To file, use the city complaint form or portal. The city page lists complaint channels; a specific complaint form name, number, fee, or deadline is not specified on the cited page.

After you file

Expect an inspection scheduling notice if the complaint alleges an immediate safety or habitability risk. Keep records of all communications and photos; if enforcement issues an order, follow the directions and note appeal deadlines in that order.

FAQ

Who enforces electricity and gas safety issues for renters?: City code enforcement handles property habitability; the municipal utility handles gas and electrical safety on utility systems and service lines.
What if my landlord does not fix a dangerous electrical or gas problem?: File a complaint with city code enforcement and report immediate hazards to the utility and 911 if life or property is at risk.
Can I withhold rent for unsafe utilities?: State and local rules on withholding rent vary; consult tenant resources or legal aid before withholding rent.

How-To

Document the hazard: take photos, note dates/times, and write a short description.
Notify your landlord in writing and request prompt repairs.
Report immediate danger to 911 and to the municipal utility as an emergency.
If the landlord does not fix the issue, file a complaint with city code enforcement and provide your documentation.
If enforcement issues an order, follow instructions and preserve appeal deadlines; seek legal advice if needed.

Key Takeaways

Renters should document hazards and notify landlords in writing before filing with the city.
For immediate danger, call 911 and the municipal utility without delay.

Help and Support / Resources

[1] City of Memphis Code Enforcement - complaint and enforcement information