Mississippi Automatic Lease Renewal Rules for Renters

Understanding how automatic lease renewals work in Mississippi is crucial for renters. If you’re not careful, your yearly or monthly lease in Mississippi could automatically renew—leaving you responsible for more rent, even if you planned to move. Mississippi law gives landlords and tenants flexibility, but clear notice rules protect you from surprises. Here’s what renters should know.

What is an Automatic Lease Renewal?

An automatic lease renewal happens when your rental agreement continues for another term (such as 12 months or month-to-month) because you and your landlord didn’t give proper notice to end or change the lease. Some leases include a specific automatic renewal clause. Others simply become month-to-month under state law.

Mississippi Law on Lease Renewals and Notice

Mississippi follows the Mississippi Code Title 89, Chapter 7: Landlord and Tenant Law, which outlines rights and obligations for rental agreements.^[1]

• If your written lease has a specific automatic renewal clause, the terms of your contract usually apply—so review your lease carefully for details!
• If there’s no renewal clause and you stay after your lease ends, Mississippi law typically treats you as a "holdover tenant" and your lease may convert to month-to-month.
• To avoid automatic renewal, proper notice must be given to your landlord before your lease expires. This notice is usually 30 days for month-to-month tenants, but check your lease terms for specifics.

Notice Periods and Delivery

• Written notice is recommended, even if not required by law.
• If you plan to move out, provide notice in writing (email or certified mail is best for proof).
• Some leases may require longer notice periods for annual leases (for example, 60 days).

What if You Don’t Give Notice?

• If you stay past your lease’s end without notice, and pay rent, you could be held to a new term—sometimes as long as the original lease, but typically month-to-month under Mississippi law.
• If you move out late without notice, your landlord may keep part of your deposit for additional rent or damages, if allowed by your lease.

Official Forms and How to Notify Your Landlord

• Notice of Non-Renewal of Lease (No Official MS Number): Mississippi does not require a formal state-provided notice form to end your lease. Instead, renters should write a clear letter stating their intention not to renew, the property address, move-out date, and their signature.
  Example: "I am providing this notice that I will not be renewing my lease for [address] and plan to vacate by [date]."
  See sample tenant notice templates on Mississippi Legal Services.
• Landlord's Notice (No Official MS Form): If your landlord wants to end your tenancy or not renew, they must also provide written notice according to the lease or at least a 30-day written notice for month-to-month tenancies.
  View official statutory notice requirements.

Which Government Body Handles Lease Disputes?

In Mississippi, rental disputes are typically handled in Justice Court in the county where the property is located. For more information, visit the Mississippi State Justice Court page.

What Does the Lease Say?

Always check your lease for specific clauses regarding renewal and required notice. If anything is unclear or missing, Mississippi law provides the default rules—but your lease usually comes first, unless an illegal term is included.

Quick Facts for Renters

• Month-to-month leases typically need 30 days’ notice to end or change terms.^[1]
• Written notification is best—don’t rely on verbal agreements.
• If you receive a lease renewal offer, respond in writing to avoid unwanted renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if I forget to give notice before my lease ends?
   Your lease may automatically renew on a month-to-month basis, and you’ll be required to continue paying rent until proper notice to end the tenancy is given.
2. Can my landlord increase the rent during an automatic renewal?
   Only if your lease or a new written agreement specifically allows for it. Rent cannot increase automatically unless stated in your lease.
3. How do I officially notify my landlord in Mississippi?
   Write a dated, signed letter stating your move-out date and keep a copy for your records. Email or certified mail is best for proof.
4. Does Mississippi provide an official lease non-renewal form?
   No, but renters can use sample templates from trusted sources or draft their own clear letter to the landlord.
5. Who do I contact for help if I have a lease renewal dispute?
   You may contact the Justice Court in your county or reach out to Mississippi Legal Services for free tenant advice.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Justice Court – For rental disputes and eviction proceedings
• Mississippi Legal Services – Free legal help and renter information
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Mississippi Office – Local rental resources

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1. Mississippi Code Title 89, Chapter 7 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Mississippi Justice Court
3. Mississippi Legal Services

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