How Renters Can File a Landlord Complaint in Mississippi

If you’re having problems with your landlord in Mississippi, it’s important to know how to file a complaint and protect your rights as a renter. Whether you’re facing habitability issues, unfair fees, or improper eviction, this guide walks you through the key steps and resources available in Mississippi to hold your landlord accountable.

Understanding Your Rights as a Mississippi Renter

Mississippi’s rental laws lay out the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. Generally, landlords are responsible for maintaining safe, livable conditions and following proper procedures for rent increases and evictions. Your rights are primarily covered by the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1] Understanding these rules is the first step toward resolving any dispute.

When to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord

You may consider filing a complaint if you experience issues such as:

• Unsafe or unhealthy living conditions your landlord refuses to repair
• Improper eviction or lockout
• Unfair withholding of your security deposit
• Discrimination or harassment
• Retaliation for requesting repairs or reporting code violations

How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Mississippi

Mississippi does not have a statewide housing authority to process rental complaints. Instead, complaints are generally handled by local city or county code enforcement offices or courts. If your complaint involves housing safety or habitability (such as mold, plumbing, or structural issues), your first step is typically to contact your local code enforcement or building inspection office. Legal disputes, including eviction or security deposit returns, are usually addressed by filing with your local Justice Court.

Document Your Concerns

• Keep records of communication with your landlord—emails, letters, texts, or photos of the issue.
• Request repairs in writing first and give reasonable time for response.
• If your issue remains unresolved, prepare to file a formal complaint.

Filing a Complaint with Local Code Enforcement

To report housing code violations (like lack of heat, water, or unsafe conditions), find your local code enforcement office and submit a detailed complaint. Some cities may require you to complete a local complaint form; check the city’s website or office for specific instructions and availability of forms.

• Example: If your apartment’s heating has failed and your landlord will not fix it, file a housing complaint through the city’s code office. An inspector will usually visit, and the landlord may be cited and required to fix the issue.

Taking Legal Action: Filing in Justice Court

If the landlord’s actions violate the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act—such as illegal eviction, failure to return a security deposit, or ignoring a repair request—you can file a case in your local Justice Court. Justice Courts handle small claims and landlord-tenant disputes. Forms and procedures may vary by county. Visit the Mississippi Justice Court Directory for contact details and instructions for your county.^[2]

• Landlord/Tenant Complaint Form: Each county provides its own version. Usually referred to as a "Complaint" or "Affidavit" form. Example: For Hinds County, see the Small Claims Complaint form.
  • Use: To start a formal small claims action against your landlord for issues like unreturned deposits or unlawful eviction.
  • Process: Complete the form with details about your complaint and file it at the Justice Court clerk’s office. There may be a small filing fee.

Discrimination or Harassment Complaints

If you believe your landlord is discriminating based on race, religion, disability, family status, or other protected categories, file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD enforces Fair Housing rules, and complaints can be filed online, by mail, or by phone.

• Form Name: HUD Form 903 Online Complaint (download form)
• Use: Submit this form if you’ve experienced discrimination in housing.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

Code enforcement will typically inspect or investigate your report. For Justice Court claims, a hearing is scheduled where both parties can present evidence. HUD will contact you about your discrimination complaint. Always attend hearings and bring all records or documentation.

1. Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint in Mississippi?
   Most renters do not need a lawyer to file a complaint or a small claims case, but having legal advice can be helpful. Free or low-cost legal aid may be available through organizations such as Mississippi Center for Legal Services.
2. Can my landlord evict me for complaining or reporting violations?
   No. Under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords are prohibited from retaliation against tenants who exercise their rights or report violations.^[1]
3. What if local code enforcement does not help?
   If you get no response from code enforcement, you can file a claim in Justice Court or contact a tenant advocate for help. Be persistent and document every step.
4. Which court handles landlord-tenant disputes in Mississippi?
   Landlord-tenant disputes (such as eviction, security deposit, or damages) are usually handled by your local Justice Court.^[2]
5. Where can I find Mississippi’s rental laws?
   You can read the full Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act online for details on your rights and responsibilities.^[1]

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Document your communications and repair requests in writing
• File complaints with local code enforcement or Justice Court depending on your issue
• Discrimination complaints can be filed with HUD
• Legal support is available through Mississippi legal aid organizations

If you follow these steps, you can better protect your rights and ensure your rental home is safe and fair.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Find Your City or County Code Enforcement Office
• Mississippi Justice Court Directory
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – Free or low-cost renter legal help
• HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity – Housing discrimination complaints

---

1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Mississippi Courts: Justice Court Information

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