Lease Addendums in Mississippi: What Tenants Need to Know

Understanding what can be added to your lease is crucial for all renters in Mississippi. Lease addendums are legal agreements attached to your rental contract, often detailing additional terms outside what’s in your main lease. Knowing what to look for — and what your rights are — will help you rent confidently and resolve problems quickly.

What Is a Lease Addendum?

A lease addendum is a separate document added to your original lease that sets extra rules or clarifies issues not fully addressed. In Mississippi, both you and your landlord must agree and sign for an addendum to be enforceable.

Common Lease Addendums to Watch For

Here are addendums Mississippi renters may encounter and what each can mean for you:

• Pet Addendums: Outlines pet deposits, species/breed restrictions, and tenant obligations.
• Maintenance Responsibilities: May specify if you are responsible for certain repairs, lawn care, or utilities.
• Early Termination/Addendums for Breaking the Lease: Sets fees and notice periods if you leave before your lease is up.
• Renewal Procedures: Details how and when your lease can be renewed or extended, including notification periods.
• Rules for Guests or Extended Stays: Limits on overnight guests or requirements for written landlord permission for long-term visitors.

Each of these could significantly impact your rights and obligations.

Are Addendums Legal in Mississippi?

Yes, as long as the addendum does not violate Mississippi law or your basic tenant rights, it is enforceable when both parties sign. However, certain addendums — such as those waiving your right to safe and habitable housing — are never valid under Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 89, Chapter 8) ^[1].

Tips for Reviewing Lease Addendums

• Read every page, including all attachments and addenda, before signing.
• If an addendum seems unfair or confusing, ask for clarification in writing.
• Never sign a blank addendum or form.

Official Forms and Where to Find Them

While Mississippi does not have a statewide standard addendum form, you may encounter these key documents:

• Notice to Terminate Lease (Mississippi Code §89-8-19):
  Used when either landlord or tenant gives notice to end a month-to-month tenancy. Example: If you want to move out, provide the landlord with this written notice at least 30 days before leaving.
  Read the official legal provision
• Security Deposit Itemization (Mississippi Code §89-8-21):
  The form landlords must use to return all or part of your security deposit after you move out. Example: Your landlord gives you a written list of any charges withheld from your deposit.
  See details on deposit returns

For local resources or sample forms, contact your county's circuit court or housing authority.

Who Oversees Landlord-Tenant Issues in Mississippi?

Mississippi does not have a dedicated state board for residential tenancy disputes. Renters should contact their local Circuit Court for issues regarding lease enforcement or disputes.

Can an Addendum Change My Rent or Rights?

An addendum can’t take away basic renter protections, like your right to a habitable home. If an addendum increases your rent, changes your duties, or adds new rules, your landlord should inform you in writing and require your agreement before it takes effect. Refer to the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for your protections.

Action Steps: What to Do Before Signing

• Request a copy of the lease and all addendums before signing.
• Check for any unusual fees, penalties, or obligations that are not in the main lease.
• If unsure, have a local attorney or advocacy program review documents with you.

Remember: You have the right to ask questions or propose changes before agreeing to any addendum.

If a landlord tries to enforce an illegal addendum, politely point to the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and seek help from your local Circuit Court.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord add new rules with a lease addendum after I’ve already signed my lease?
   Both the landlord and tenant must agree to any new addendum for it to be valid. If you don’t agree, you can refuse to sign, and the original lease terms remain.
2. What if an addendum says I have to pay for all repairs?
   The landlord cannot avoid their legal responsibilities for repairs that are necessary to keep your unit habitable. Any such clause is not enforceable under Mississippi law.
3. Do I have to accept an addendum increasing my rent in the middle of a lease?
   No. Rent increases can only occur at the end of your lease term unless you agree in writing to a mid-lease change.
4. Where can I get help if I think an addendum is unfair or illegal?
   Contact your local Circuit Court or a county legal services office for help with lease disputes and to review your documents.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Lease addendums must be agreed upon and signed by both parties to be valid.
• Addendums cannot waive your basic legal rights as a tenant.
• Local Circuit Courts handle disputes; always keep copies of signed documents.

By staying informed, you’ll be better equipped to avoid unexpected costs and enforce your rights as a renter in Mississippi.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Official State Statute)
• Mississippi Circuit Courts – Find your local office
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help for renters
• Apply for legal help online

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Mississippi Code Title 89, Chapter 8, 2023)
2. Mississippi Circuit Courts – Official Directory
3. Mississippi Center for Legal Services Website

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