Demanding Repairs Before Move-In in Mississippi: A Renter’s Guide

Moving into a new home is exciting, but it can be stressful if you notice problems that could affect your health or safety. Mississippi renters have rights when it comes to demanding repairs before move-in. It’s important to understand your legal options, how to document repair needs, and the proper way to notify your landlord.

What Are Your Rights as a Mississippi Renter?

Under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must provide rental units that are habitable and meet basic health and safety standards. This generally means:

• Safe and working plumbing, heating, and electrical systems
• Floors, walls, and ceilings free from significant hazards
• Clean and sanitary common areas
• Proper locks on windows and doors

Landlords are also required to address major repairs that affect your ability to live safely in the home before a new tenant moves in.^[1]

Inspecting the Rental Before Move-In

Before signing a lease or moving your belongings, take time to inspect the property:

• Walk through each room and note any damage, health, or safety issues.
• Photograph or video any problems for your own records.
• Request a written move-in inspection form from the landlord.

Mississippi Move-In Checklist & Inspection Forms

While Mississippi law does not require a specific official form, many landlords offer a move-in inspection checklist. If your landlord does not provide one, you can document repairs or issues in writing or by using a generic inspection checklist available from your local housing authority.

• Form Example: Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist (provided by landlord or self-created)
• When Used: Before move-in, to record the condition of the property for both parties.
• Where to Find: Ask your landlord, or view guidance on the official HUD move-in checklist.

How to Request Repairs Before Moving In

If you find issues that need fixing, Mississippi law allows you to request repairs in writing before signing the lease or moving in. Here are the recommended steps:

1. Document all problems with photos and notes.
2. Write a formal repair request to your landlord. Be specific about the issues and ask for them to be fixed before move-in.
3. Send your request by certified mail or email so you have proof of communication.
4. Keep copies of all correspondence and responses.

If the repairs are not made and you don’t feel safe or the property isn’t habitable, you have the right to refuse move-in or negotiate with the landlord. Do not sign a lease unless you are satisfied with the planned repairs or have an agreement in writing.

What If Repairs Are Refused?

If a landlord refuses to make reasonable repairs before move-in, you may:

• Choose not to sign the lease or refuse to move in
• Contact Mississippi’s Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for advice
• Consult with Mississippi Center for Legal Services or local housing advocacy groups

What Is the Residential Landlord and Tenant Tribunal in Mississippi?

Mississippi does not have a specific tribunal or board for residential landlord-tenant disputes. The appropriate legal body is your local Mississippi County Court or Justice Court. These courts handle disputes about repairs, deposit returns, and tenancy issues if a landlord fails to fulfill their legal obligations before move-in.

Relevant Legislation for Mississippi Renters

All tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities are defined by the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This provides the rules for repairs, habitability, move-in procedures, and dispute resolution.

FAQ: Renters’ Common Questions

1. What repairs must a landlord make before I move in?
   Landlords must address any major repairs that affect health or safety, such as broken heating, severe leaks, hazardous wiring, or missing smoke detectors, to ensure the unit is habitable before move-in.
2. Do I need to use a specific form to request repairs in Mississippi?
   No official state form is required, but you should submit your repair request in writing (letter or email) with clear details and keep a copy for your records.
3. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t done before moving in?
   You should not withhold rent before the lease begins. If you have not moved in, do not sign the lease or pay rent until you are satisfied with repair commitments or results.
4. Where do I go if my landlord won’t make essential repairs before move-in?
   You can seek help from your local Justice Court or County Court, or contact the Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for guidance.
5. What proof should I keep when requesting repairs?
   Keep all emails, letters, dated photos, and any responses from the landlord to support your case if needed later.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Always inspect and document the property before moving in.
• Communicate repair requests in writing and keep records.
• Know your rights under Mississippi law—your home must be safe and habitable.

Addressing repairs before move-in protects your health, safety, and financial well-being.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Mississippi Justice & County Courts (for dispute filings)
• Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services
• HUD Move-In/Move-Out Checklist

---

1. See Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 89-8-23
2. Refer to Mississippi Judiciary: County & Justice Courts for dispute resolution
3. HUD's Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations