Mississippi Mobile Home Owner Eviction Rights Explained

If you own a mobile or manufactured home but rent a lot in Mississippi, it's essential to understand your eviction protections. While you have additional rights compared to traditional tenants, state law still allows mobile park owners to terminate your lot lease under certain circumstances. This guide explains the basic eviction rules, what notices you must receive, and what steps to take if you face eviction in Mississippi.

Who Is Protected?

Mississippi law provides some protections for mobile home owners who rent land in a mobile home park. These residents own their home but pay rent for the space, making their situation different from traditional apartment tenants. Protections focus mainly on advance notice and the reasons a landlord may evict you from your lot.

Grounds for Eviction of Mobile Home Owners in Mississippi

According to Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act[1], a park owner can terminate a rental agreement if the tenant:

• Fails to pay rent on time
• Violates significant terms of the lease or park rules (such as noise, maintenance, or occupancy limits)
• Engages in criminal activity on the property
• The landlord plans to redevelop the property for a different purpose (with proper notice)

Landlords cannot evict you for exercising legal rights, filing complaints, or joining a resident association.

Notice Requirements for Eviction

Under Mississippi law, notice requirements vary based on the reason for eviction:

• Nonpayment of Rent: The park owner must give a written notice stating the amount due and allowing you at least three days to pay before further steps are taken.^[2]
• Other Lease Violations: You must be given at least 30 days' written notice to vacate. The notice should specifically state the violation.
• Redevelopment or Change of Use: Mississippi law does not provide specific enhanced notice for redevelopment, but local ordinances or your lease agreement may provide further time or relocation assistance.

Required Eviction Forms

• Notice to Quit for Nonpayment of Rent (No official form number): Used by landlords to notify a mobile home owner of unpaid rent and the demand to pay or vacate within 3 days.
  Example: If you fall behind on lot rent, you may receive this notice taped to your door or sent by certified mail. If you pay within the notice period, eviction proceedings cannot continue.
  See Mississippi Notice to Quit sample
• Summons and Complaint for Eviction (Justice Court Form): Filed by the landlord at the local Justice Court if the notice period passes with no resolution.
  Example: If you do not leave or fix the problem after the notice, you may receive a court summons, letting you know when and where to appear.
  Mississippi Justice Court Eviction Summons

If You Receive an Eviction Notice: Steps to Take

Getting an eviction notice is stressful, but Mississippi law gives you due process. Here are practical steps:

• Read the Notice Carefully: Take note of the deadline to pay, fix the issue, or move.
• Respond Promptly: For nonpayment, pay the full amount owed within the notice period if possible. For alleged lease violations, fix the issue to the best of your ability.
• Prepare for Court: If you receive a Justice Court Summons, gather your documents (lease, receipts, written communications) and attend the hearing.
• Legal Help: If you believe the eviction is unfair or unlawful, seek legal advice before your court date. Free legal help may be available.

The Tribunal That Handles Mobile Home Evictions

In Mississippi, eviction cases are handled by the Justice Court for the county where your mobile home park is located. This tribunal hears and decides landlord-tenant disputes, including those involving eviction of mobile home owners. You will receive a summons if a formal complaint is filed.

Relevant Mississippi Legislation

• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

This act contains your primary rights and obligations as a renter or manufactured home owner leasing a lot in Mississippi.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice must I get before being evicted from a mobile home lot?
   For nonpayment of rent, at least three days' written notice is required. For other violations, you must usually receive 30 days' notice.
2. Can a park owner evict me without a reason?
   No. Under Mississippi law, a park owner must have a legal reason such as nonpayment of rent or a serious lease violation to evict a mobile home owner who rents a lot.
3. What should I do if I’m served with a Justice Court Eviction Summons?
   Read the document carefully and show up to your scheduled hearing with your lease, payment records, and any correspondence. If you fail to appear, the court may order your removal by default.
4. If I own my mobile home but rent the lot, can I be forced to remove my home immediately?
   No, you have the right to proper notice and to attend a court hearing before your mobile home may be removed from the lot.
5. Where can I find Mississippi eviction laws for manufactured housing?
   The Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act contains the key rules for mobile home lot renters.

Conclusion / Key Takeaways

• Mississippi law requires written notice and legal grounds for evicting mobile home owners who rent lots.
• Eviction must go through the local Justice Court, with a hearing where you can present your side.
• Seek help from legal or advocacy groups if you feel your rights are being violated.

Staying informed is your best protection. Always read all notices and respond quickly to avoid losing important rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Justice Court Directory – Find your local tribunal for eviction matters
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – Free legal help for qualifying residents
• Mississippi Housing Search – Locate housing resources
• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Official state law on landlord-tenant matters

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, MS Code Title 89, Chapter 8. Official statute text
2. "Notice to Quit" requirements: MS Code § 89-7-27. Notice to Quit statute

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