Mississippi Lease Renewal Rights: When Can a Landlord Refuse?

Lease renewals in Mississippi can be confusing for renters. If you're nearing the end of your rental agreement, you may wonder: Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease? Understanding Mississippi’s laws helps you plan your next steps and avoid unexpected surprises.

Mississippi Lease Renewal Basics

In Mississippi, landlords are generally allowed to refuse to renew a lease once it expires. Rental agreements may be written (like a 12-month lease) or month-to-month. Whether your lease is ending or your rental is periodic, the rules about renewal and landlord notice are set by the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

When Can a Landlord Refuse to Renew?

In most cases, a landlord is not required to renew or extend your lease as long as:

• They follow the notice rules in your lease or state law
• They do not discriminate against you based on protected characteristics, such as race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or family status (as outlined under federal Fair Housing laws)
• They do not retaliate against you for asserting your legal rights, like requesting repairs or filing a complaint

Landlords are not required to state a reason for non-renewal unless your lease says otherwise.

Required Notice for Non-Renewal

• Fixed-term leases (for example, a 12-month lease): These usually end automatically unless both parties agree to renew. Landlords do not have to give additional notice unless your lease agreement requires it, but many provide courtesy notice.
• Month-to-month leases: Either landlord or tenant can terminate the lease by giving at least 30 days’ written notice before the rent is due next.^[2]

Proper written notice must be delivered by hand or sent to your last known address.

Official Forms: Notice to Terminate Lease

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (No Official Form Number): Mississippi does not offer a standard government form for giving notice to end a rental agreement. Landlords or tenants must create their own written notice stating the date the lease will end, signed and dated by the person giving notice.
  
  For example: If your landlord wants you to move out at the end of a month-to-month lease, they must give you a written 30-day notice. You do not need to sign this notice for it to be valid.
  
  For more information, see the section on termination and notice in Mississippi’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Where to Get Help with Lease Issues

The official agency for rental disputes in Mississippi is your local Mississippi Justice Court (Mississippi does not have a centralized landlord-tenant board, but local courts handle disputes about evictions, lease termination, and related issues). If you feel a lease non-renewal was discriminatory or retaliatory, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or your local Fair Housing office.

Renter Protections: What is Not Allowed?

While landlords can generally choose not to renew, some reasons are strictly prohibited. A landlord cannot refuse renewal for reasons such as:

• Requesting needed repairs
• Filing a legal complaint about the property
• Discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status

Steps to Take if You Receive a Non-Renewal Notice

Receiving a notice that your lease will not be renewed can be stressful. Here’s what you should do:

• Read the notice carefully and check the timeline
• Confirm whether the proper written notice period was followed
• Document all communications
• If you believe the decision was discriminatory or retaliatory, gather supporting evidence
• Seek legal assistance or contact HUD for discrimination or retaliation claims

If you decide to move, be sure to collect your security deposit, complete the move-out process, and leave the property in good condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease for any reason?
   Yes, in most cases, unless the refusal is for a discriminatory or retaliatory reason.
2. Does my landlord have to give me notice if they will not renew?
   For fixed-term leases, usually not, unless stated in your lease. For month-to-month tenancies, 30 days’ written notice is required.
3. Can I challenge a non-renewal I think is unfair?
   You can challenge non-renewal if you believe it was due to illegal discrimination or retaliation. Contact HUD or a local Fair Housing office for help.
4. Is there a government form for lease non-renewal in Mississippi?
   No official form exists. Landlords must provide a clear, written notice with the details required by law.
5. What can I do if I need more time before moving out?
   You can ask your landlord for an extension, but they are not required to grant it. If you are facing hardship, local legal aid or renter advocacy groups may help.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Landlords in Mississippi do not have to renew your lease unless it is for a discriminatory or retaliatory reason.
• Written notice rules depend on your agreement type—review your lease and state law for exact timeframes.
• If you suspect unfair treatment, keep thorough records and seek advice from official resources.

Preparing ahead and knowing your rights can help avoid difficult situations at the end of your lease.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – State law for rental rights and obligations
• Mississippi Justice Court Directory – Find your local court for rental disputes and evictions
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – File discrimination complaints or find renter support
• Mississippi Legal Services – Free legal help for qualifying low-income renters

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Notice to Terminate and Nonrenewal, Miss. Code § 89-8-19

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