Landlord Disclosure Rules Before Move-In in Mississippi

Before signing a lease or moving into a rental in Mississippi, it’s essential to understand what information your landlord is legally required to share. These disclosures protect both tenants and landlords by setting clear expectations. This article explains Mississippi’s landlord disclosure requirements, official forms, and the main tenancy laws that protect renters.

What Landlords Must Disclose Before Move-In

Mississippi law has fewer mandatory disclosure requirements than some other states. However, there are still some crucial things landlords must tell renters before a lease begins:

• Identity of Owner or Agent: Landlords must disclose in writing the name and address of the property owner or anyone authorized to act on their behalf (like a property manager). This helps renters know who to contact for repairs or in emergencies.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for certain rentals): For properties built before 1978, federal law requires landlords to provide specific information about lead-based paint hazards.
• Move-In Inspection (optional best practice): While not required by law, it’s recommended that both tenants and landlords complete a move-in inspection checklist to document the condition of the home.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD Form):
  Required for rentals built before 1978. Your landlord must provide this form and a lead hazard information pamphlet before you sign the lease. For example, if you’re moving into a 1950s-era apartment, ask to see the completed Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and the EPA’s Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home booklet. These documents help you understand any risks and your rights.

Please note: There are no official Mississippi-specific disclosure forms apart from federally required lead paint forms. However, landlords must supply owner/agent information in writing when you enter into a rental agreement.[1]

Which Mississippi Law Covers Rental Disclosures?

Mississippi’s rental laws are outlined in the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Key sections relating to disclosures include:

• MS Code § 89-8-13: Establishes the landlord’s duty to provide the owner or agent’s name and address in writing.

You can review all relevant legislation at the Mississippi State Legislature website.

What Happens If a Landlord Does Not Disclose?

If your landlord does not provide required disclosures, you may not know whom to contact for repairs, emergencies, or legal notices. This could affect your ability to resolve disputes or claim your rights as a tenant.

The Tribunal or Board for Rental Issues in Mississippi

Mississippi does not have a housing board devoted solely to tenant-landlord matters. Instead, most issues are handled in local Justice Courts, which operate county by county. Find your local court using the Mississippi Justice Court Directory.

What to Do If Something Is Missing

If your landlord refuses or fails to provide required disclosures:

• Request the disclosure in writing (email or certified letter is best for records).
• Contact your local Justice Court to ask about your rights or file a complaint if necessary.
• If related to lead-based paint, you can file a report with the EPA.

It’s best to address missing disclosures before moving in, but you can also take action after the lease starts if needed.

FAQ: Landlord Disclosures in Mississippi

1. Is the landlord required to provide a written lease?
   Mississippi law does not mandate a written lease for all tenancies, but having one protects both parties. If a lease is written, disclosures must be provided in writing.
2. Do I get a move-in inspection checklist?
   State law does not require a move-in inspection form, but it is a good idea for renters to request one to document the rental’s condition at the start.
3. What happens if my landlord doesn’t give me the EPA lead paint form?
   If renting a property built before 1978 and you do not receive the required lead paint disclosure, you can report the violation to the EPA or your local Justice Court.
4. How do I find out who owns my rental property?
   The landlord must provide the property owner’s or agent’s name and address in writing. This is required by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Landlords must give you the property owner or agent’s name and address in writing before you move in.
• If you are renting a property built before 1978, landlords must also provide federal lead paint disclosures.
• If you don’t receive these, put your request in writing and follow up with local Justice Court if needed.

Understanding these rules can help you start your tenancy on the right foot. For your protection, keep copies of all documents and communications with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Justice Court Directory – for rental disputes or complaints
• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – full text of the rental law
• EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rules – requirements and forms for older properties
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – free and low-cost renter legal help

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1. Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-13, see owner/agent disclosure requirements
2. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – full text
3. EPA Lead Hazard Disclosure – federal requirements and forms
4. Mississippi Justice Courts – official directory

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