Mississippi Rent Stabilization Laws: What Renters Need to Know

For Mississippi renters, understanding your rights can help you feel more secure in your home—especially when it comes to how much your rent can increase from year to year. If you’re coping with financial changes or worried about rent hikes, it’s important to learn how state law deals with rent stabilization and control.

What Is Rent Stabilization?

Rent stabilization typically refers to laws that limit how much landlords can increase rent each year and often give renters additional protections against eviction. Many states and cities nationwide have created such laws to help tenants keep housing affordable. However, not every state offers rent stabilization or rent control programs.

Does Mississippi Have Rent Stabilization or Rent Control?

Mississippi does not have any statewide rent stabilization or rent control laws. Currently, there are no legal limits on how much a landlord can raise the rent when renewing a lease or starting a new one. Local governments in Mississippi also do not have the authority to enact their own rent control measures.

• Landlords may increase rent at the end of a lease term, as long as they provide proper notice.
• There are no laws requiring a justification for a rent increase.
• Certain anti-discrimination protections still apply under federal and state law.

If your rent increases seem sudden or are causing hardship, know that legal protections are more limited in Mississippi than in some states.

How Much Notice Must a Landlord Give Before Raising Rent?

While there is no limit on how much your rent can increase, Mississippi law does require landlords to give notice before changing the terms of a rental agreement.

• For month-to-month leases: Landlords must give at least 30 days' written notice before raising rent or ending the tenancy.
• For fixed-term leases: Your rent cannot be changed until the lease ends—unless your agreement states otherwise.

If you receive a rent increase, check your lease and the notice for accuracy. Always get notifications in writing.

Your Rights as a Renter in Mississippi

Even without rent control, Mississippi renters have important rights:

• Rent cannot be raised as a form of discrimination or retaliation
• You must receive proper written notice before any rent increase (typically 30 days for month-to-month agreements)
• Landlords must follow all terms of the lease and state statutes, such as the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

If you believe your landlord is retaliating against you for reporting a code violation or asking for repairs, this may be illegal under Mississippi law.¹

Key Forms and Where to Find Them

• Notice to Increase Rent (no official form): Landlords must provide written notice but the state does not have a standardized rent increase notice form. Renters should request a written, dated notice with the proposed new rent and starting date.
• Sample Complaint Letter (PDF):
• Use when: Writing to your landlord to challenge a sudden or unfair rent increase, especially if you suspect discrimination or retaliation.
• How to use: Edit to fit your situation, keep a copy, and send by certified mail or email for a clear record.

Mississippi’s Official Housing Tribunal/Board

If you have a dispute with your landlord, you may need to take legal action. In Mississippi, justice courts (also called small claims courts) handle landlord-tenant disputes, including evictions. There is no specialized housing board.

Relevant Legislation

The primary law governing landlords and tenants in Mississippi is the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, found in Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-1 et seq. This law details your rights regarding notice, repairs, deposits, and other rental issues.

Action Steps if You Face a Rent Increase

Even though Mississippi does not limit rent increases, there are actions you can take if you believe a rent hike is unfair or unlawful:

• Request the increase in writing (if not provided)
• Review your lease for any relevant terms
• Send a written letter to your landlord if you believe the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory
• Consult free legal resources or seek assistance through Mississippi Legal Services
• If you are facing eviction after challenging a rent increase, prepare for a hearing in justice court

Understanding the rules can help you protect your rights when rent increases occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Mississippi have any rent control or rent stabilization programs?
   Mississippi does not have rent control or rent stabilization laws at the state or local level. Landlords can raise rent with proper notice.
2. How much notice must my landlord give me before raising my rent?
   For month-to-month leases, at least 30 days’ written notice is required before a rent increase can take effect.
3. What if I believe my rent increase is due to discrimination?
   If you suspect discrimination, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or speak with legal aid. Keep all documentation of the notice and your communications.
4. Can my landlord raise my rent in the middle of my fixed-term lease?
   No—unless your lease specifically allows it. Rent cannot increase until the lease ends and is renewed.
5. Where do I go if I need to resolve a rent dispute in Mississippi?
   Most landlord-tenant disputes are handled by your local justice court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Mississippi does not have rent stabilization or control—rent increases are largely unrestricted but require proper notice.
• Always request and keep a written record of any rent increase notices.
• If you experience discrimination, retaliation, or need to challenge a rent increase, free legal resources are available to help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Legal Services: Free legal aid and resources for renters.
• Mississippi Justice Courts: Where you can file tenant complaints or address disputes.
• U.S. HUD Mississippi Renter Resources: Federal tenant rights and complaint options.
• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: The main rental housing law in the state.

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-1 et seq.)
2. Mississippi Legal Services: Sample Tenant Letters
3. Mississippi Justice Courts
4. HUD: Mississippi Tenant Rights

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