Can Landlords Raise Rent During a Lease in Mississippi?

Understanding your rights as a renter in Mississippi is essential, especially when facing changes in your lease like a potential rent increase. This article will explain if your landlord can raise the rent in the middle of your lease, what state law says, and practical steps to take if you receive such a notice.

Understanding Rent Increases in Mississippi

Mississippi rental agreements are governed by state law, specifically the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act¹. If you have a written lease for a set period (like a one-year lease), the rental amount is fixed for the duration of that lease. Your landlord generally cannot raise the rent before your current lease ends unless your rental agreement specifically allows rent changes during the lease term.

Key Points About Lease Types and Rent Increases

• Fixed-term leases (for example, 12 months): Rent cannot be increased during the term unless your lease says otherwise.
• Month-to-month rentals: Landlords can increase rent but must give written notice as required by law.
• Always check your lease agreement for any clauses about rent adjustments or modifications.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

For month-to-month tenants, Mississippi law requires landlords to give at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent.¹ For fixed-term leases, rent increases may only occur at the end of the lease term, unless the lease has a rent escalation clause.

• If you receive a notice of rent increase mid-lease, review your rental agreement and confirm if any such clause exists.
• If there is no clause, a rent increase during the lease is not generally allowed.

Tip: Always request written documentation of any rent changes and keep copies for your records.

Is There a Standard Official Mississippi Rent Increase Notice Form?

Mississippi does not provide a required statewide rent increase notice form. Landlords may draft their own written notice. If you need sample language or want to file a complaint, you may use resources provided by the Mississippi Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.

What Should I Do if I Get a Mid-Lease Rent Increase?

If your landlord tries to raise the rent before your lease ends, consider these action steps:

• Review your lease agreement for any permissible rent increase clauses.
• Communicate with your landlord in writing to clarify the reason for the increase.
• If needed, contact the Mississippi Attorney General Consumer Protection Division for assistance or to file a consumer complaint.

Relevant Authority for Tenant-Landlord Disputes

In Mississippi, there is no specialized state tenancy tribunal. Most rental disputes are handled in local Justice Courts, and oversight is provided by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.²

Frequently Asked Questions About Mid-Lease Rent Increases in Mississippi

1. Can my landlord increase the rent while my fixed-term lease is active?
   Generally, no. Landlords in Mississippi cannot raise the rent during a fixed-term lease unless your lease agreement includes a clause that allows it.
2. How much advance notice must my landlord give for a rent increase on a month-to-month rental?
   Mississippi law requires at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase can take effect for month-to-month tenants.
3. What should I do if I get a rent increase notice that doesn’t follow the lease or state law?
   Respond to your landlord in writing and keep a record. If issues persist, contact the Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or a local Justice Court.
4. Does Mississippi have rent control laws?
   No, Mississippi does not have rent control or statewide limits on how much rent can be increased.
5. Who handles formal rental disputes in Mississippi?
   Most landlord-tenant disputes are handled by Justice Courts, not a specialized tenancy board.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Mississippi

• Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – file a complaint or find informational resources
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – free or low-cost legal help for renters
• Mississippi Justice Courts Directory – find your local court for rental disputes
• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – official state legislation

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-19 et seq.)
2. Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division

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