Mississippi Rent Increases and Pass-Through Costs Explained

If you’re renting in Mississippi and concerned about your rent going up, especially due to new costs passed on by your landlord, you’re not alone. With no statewide rent control, understanding how rent increases work—including what can and cannot be passed through to you—is essential for protecting your rights and planning ahead.

Understanding Rent Increases and Pass-Through Costs in Mississippi

Mississippi law does not limit how much a landlord can raise your rent. There is no state-level rent control or rent stabilization. However, landlords still must follow rules on how and when they notify you about any rent increase, including increases due to “pass-through costs” (extra expenses landlords pass on, such as utility rate hikes or property taxes).

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

Pass-through costs are fees or charges a landlord might add to your base rent. Common examples include:

• Increased property taxes
• Utility surcharges
• Building-wide improvement costs
• Insurance premium increases

Whether these costs can be added depends mainly on your lease agreement. If your rental contract explicitly allows the landlord to pass on certain costs, they may do so after proper notice.

Legal Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

According to the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must:

• Give at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent on a month-to-month lease
• Wait until the end of your lease term to change the rent amount for a fixed-term lease—unless your lease says otherwise

Check your lease to see if it contains a clause about pass-through costs. If in doubt, ask your landlord for clarification in writing.

Limits and Local Considerations

Unlike some states, Mississippi does not have a rent control board or local government body that regulates rent amounts for private rentals.

• Local cities or counties typically do not impose additional limits.
• Special rules apply to government-assisted housing; check with your local housing authority if you live in a subsidized unit.

Official Forms and Notices

Mississippi does not have a standardized statewide form for rent increase—landlords must supply written notice, but no specific template is required. An example would be a "30-Day Notice of Rent Increase." Typically, your landlord will draft their own notice and provide it via mail or in person.

• 30-Day Notice of Rent Increase: Used by the landlord to notify month-to-month tenants. A typical scenario would be your landlord sending you a letter stating your rent will rise starting in 30 days. See sample guidance at the Mississippi Home Corporation website.

If your landlord raises your rent in violation of your lease terms, you may wish to contact the Mississippi Secretary of State – Landlord/Tenant Resources for guidance.

How to Respond to a Rent Increase Due to Pass-Through Costs

If you believe the increase violates your lease, or if you weren’t given proper notice, you can:

• Politely request clarification and documentation of the increase from your landlord
• Contact the Mississippi Center for Legal Services for guidance
• File a complaint with your local housing authority if you are in subsidized housing

Usually, taking these steps leads to clarification or correction without escalating to legal action.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord raise rent at any time in Mississippi?
   No, your landlord must wait until your lease period ends or, for month-to-month leases, give you at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent.
2. Are there any limits on how much my rent can go up?
   No, there are no state laws that limit the amount or frequency of rent increases in Mississippi, unless your lease says otherwise.
3. What if my lease doesn’t mention pass-through costs?
   If your lease is silent about pass-through costs, your landlord generally cannot add extra charges beyond base rent until a new lease is signed or your lease is renewed.
4. Is there an official government board that handles rent increases in Mississippi?
   No, Mississippi does not have a specific tribunal or rent board for residential rent disputes. General landlord-tenant disputes may be handled through local county courts.
5. How do I challenge a rent increase I believe is unfair or illegal?
   Gather all relevant documents, write to your landlord for clarification, and seek help from the Mississippi Center for Legal Services. You may also file a complaint in your local small claims court if needed.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Landlords can raise rent—including passing through costs—if your lease allows and you receive proper notice.
• No state or local rent control means few legal limits on rent increases, so review your lease carefully.
• If you receive a notice you don’t understand or believe is unlawful, document everything and seek help from legal resources.

Remember to stay informed and assert your rights by keeping copies of your lease and all communications with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – Housing Assistance
• Mississippi Home Corporation – Affordable Housing and Resources
• Mississippi Secretary of State – Landlord/Tenant Legal Information
• The main legislation is the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, see: Official Legislation PDF
2. Mississippi Secretary of State – Landlord/Tenant Resources: Official Homepage
3. Mississippi Home Corporation: Official Housing Programs
4. Mississippi Center for Legal Services: Housing Resource Page

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