Mississippi Renters: Your Rights If Mold Becomes a Problem

Mold can create health risks and make your rental unsafe. If you’re a renter in Mississippi and suspect mold in your home, it's important to understand your rights and what steps you can take. This guide explains Mississippi mold laws, the landlord’s duties, and how to take action if your home develops a mold problem.

Is Your Landlord Responsible for Mold in Mississippi?

Mississippi law requires landlords to keep rentals in a condition fit for living. While there’s no state law that directly mentions mold, landlords must make sure the property meets health and safety standards and is free from serious hazards under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1]. Dangerous mold growth can make a home uninhabitable and may violate these standards.

What Makes a Home Unfit to Live In?

Your rental must have:

• Working plumbing and a safe water supply
• No leaks leading to water damage or mold growth
• Proper ventilation
• No hazardous conditions affecting health or safety

If mold results from leaks or poor upkeep, landlords are expected to address the cause and repair the damage.

What Should Renters Do If They Find Mold?

Documenting and reporting the problem early protects both your health and your rights. Here’s how to take action:

• Document the Mold: Take clear photos, and keep records of any health symptoms or damages.
• Notify Your Landlord in Writing: Mississippi law requires you to make a written complaint before the landlord is legally required to act.

Official Notice Form for Reporting Mold

• Form Title: Notice to Landlord: Request for Repairs (No official state-numbered form available)
• When to Use: As soon as you spot mold, send written notice to your landlord describing the issue and requesting repairs. This starts your legal protection and lets the landlord fix the problem. Sample repair notice form (Mississippi) is available for guidance.

What Happens After You Give Notice?

Your landlord has 14 days after receiving your written notice to fix the problem. If they do not, you may have options under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act:

• Terminate your lease early: You can give written notice to end your tenancy if repairs are not made.
• Seek damages: You can ask for compensation or repair costs through court action.

Important: Never stop paying rent unless you have clear legal advice or a court order.

Official Tribunal for Tenant-Landlord Disputes

If you and your landlord cannot resolve the issue, disputes may be handled by your local Mississippi Justice Court, which hears landlord-tenant cases throughout the state.

How to Take Legal Action If Repairs Aren't Made

If your landlord fails to act, you can file a complaint with the Justice Court in your county. The court will ask for proof that you gave proper written notice and documentation of the mold problem.

• Local Justice Court Complaint Forms: Each county court may have its own forms, such as the Complaint for Money form used for damages.
• How to Use: File the form with your county Justice Court if you are seeking compensation for damages or unresolved repairs.

If your health or safety is immediately at risk, consider contacting your local health department as well.

FAQ: Mold Problems in Mississippi Rentals

1. Can my landlord make me pay for mold removal?
   Generally, if the mold is caused by the landlord’s failure to maintain the property, they are responsible for cleanup and repairs. If you caused the problem (like not reporting leaks), you may have to pay.
2. What can I do if my landlord ignores my repair request?
   If your landlord does not act within 14 days of your written notice, you may terminate your lease, seek compensation, or file a complaint with Justice Court.
3. Can I stop paying rent if there is mold?
   You should not withhold rent unless a court orders it. Nonpayment can lead to eviction.
4. What documentation should I keep?
   Save copies of all written notices, photos, receipts, and any medical reports related to the mold issue.
5. Where can I get help if my health is affected by mold?
   Contact your county health department or the Mississippi State Department of Health for support and official guidance.

Conclusion: What Mississippi Renters Should Remember

• Always send written notice to your landlord if you find mold
• Your landlord has 14 days to repair, or you can seek further action
• Use official channels like local Justice Court for unresolved disputes

Knowing your rights can help you get repairs made quickly and safely protect your housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Justice Court Directory – Find your local landlord-tenant dispute office
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – Free legal help for eligible renters
• Mississippi State Department of Health – Information and support for health concerns from mold
• Mississippi Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 89, Chapter 8)

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Landlord’s Duties – Section 89-8-23
2. Mississippi Justice Court (Official Tribunal Contact)
3. Mississippi Center for Legal Services (Official resource)

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