Illegal Rental Ad Language: Fair Housing Law in Mississippi

Mississippi renters have the right to fair and equal opportunity when searching for housing. Both state and federal laws make it illegal to include certain types of language in rental advertisements. Knowing your rights can help you recognize potentially discriminatory ads and take action if needed.

Which Rental Ad Phrases Are Illegal in Mississippi?

When landlords or property managers advertise rentals in Mississippi, they must follow federal fair housing laws as well as any state provisions. Under the federal Fair Housing Act, it is illegal to advertise in a way that shows preference, limitation, or discrimination based on:

• Race or color
• National origin
• Religion
• Sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity)
• Disability
• Familial status (such as households with children)

In Mississippi, these are the main protected classes. State law defers largely to the federal standards. Mississippi's Fair Housing Law (Miss. Code Ann. § 43-33-701 et seq.) aligns with federal protections.^[1][2]

Examples of Discriminatory Rental Ad Language

Landlords cannot use language in ads that directly or indirectly suggests a preference for or against any protected group. Illegal phrases include:

• "No children," "Adults only," or "Ideal for singles" (discriminates based on familial status)
• "Christian family preferred" or "Near mosque only" (religion)
• "No wheelchairs" or "Able-bodied tenants only" (disability)
• "No Hispanics," "White tenants only," or ethnic references (race or national origin)
• Gender-specific language not tied to shared facilities (e.g., "Male renters only")

Using these or similar phrases can violate fair housing laws even if that was not the landlord's intention.

What Language Is Acceptable in Rental Ads?

Describing the property and its amenities is allowed. Acceptable ad examples:

• "Two-bedroom apartment with washer/dryer included"
• "Near local schools and bus lines"
• "No smoking allowed" (as long as it does not target a protected group)
• "Credit and background check required" (applied equally to all applicants)

If You Encounter a Discriminatory Rental Advertisement

Mississippi renters can pursue several steps if they believe a rental ad is discriminatory. The primary enforcement agencies are the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity and locally, the Mississippi Home Corporation.

• You may file a complaint with HUD or with state authorities.
• Complaints must typically be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination.
• All complaints are confidential and retaliation is prohibited by law.

To start, fill out the HUD Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903).

How to Use the HUD Discrimination Complaint Form (Form 903)

• Form name/number: HUD Form 903
• When used: If you see or experience any housing discrimination, including in rental advertising.
• How to use: Complete the form online, by mail, or call HUD at 1-800-669-9777 to file your complaint. Attach supporting evidence like copies or photos of the ad. File a HUD complaint here.

Tribunal or Board Handling Rental Discrimination in Mississippi

Mississippi does not have a standalone state housing tribunal for rental issues; complaints are generally handled by HUD FHEO and sometimes processed by local HUD-partnered agencies. For guidance, you can contact the Mississippi Home Corporation (MHC).

FAQ: Rental Ad Discrimination in Mississippi

1. What should I do if I see a rental ad in Mississippi that says "No kids"?
   If you spot an ad banning children, it may violate the Fair Housing Act. Save a copy and file a complaint with HUD or a state housing agency.
2. Is it illegal for landlords to mention religion in a rental ad?
   Yes. Landlords cannot show preference based on religion in rental advertisements, even if they do not intend to discriminate.
3. Can rental ads limit who applies based on gender in Mississippi?
   Generally, ads cannot limit applicants based on gender unless sharing living space (such as college roommates). Otherwise, it's not allowed.
4. How do I report a discriminatory rental ad?
   Fill out HUD Form 903 online or by mail, include copies of the advertisement, and submit to the HUD Office of Fair Housing.
5. Are there exceptions to fair housing advertising laws?
   Some owner-occupied buildings with fewer than four units may have partial exemptions, but discriminatory ads are broadly illegal for most rental listings.

Key Takeaways

• Mississippi rental ads cannot contain language that discriminates by race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or family status
• If you see unfair language, file a complaint with HUD
• Always keep evidence, such as screenshots, of the advertisement

Understanding what counts as illegal advertising language protects both your rights and the broader community from housing discrimination.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity – National fair housing complaints and information
• File a Housing Discrimination Complaint Online (HUD)
• Mississippi Home Corporation – Local state agency offering housing guidance and resources
• HUD Discrimination Complaint Form 903 (PDF)
• Read the Mississippi Fair Housing Law

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1. Fair Housing Act Overview – HUD
2. Mississippi Fair Housing Law (Miss. Code Ann. § 43-33-701 et seq.)
3. HUD Online Discrimination Complaint Portal

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