Can my landlord legally change my locks if I am behind on rent?

No, in Mississippi your landlord cannot change your locks or exclude you without a court eviction order. Lockouts for unpaid rent without a court judgment are not allowed.

How can I regain access to my home if I've been locked out?

Complete and file a Petition for Immediate Possession at your local Justice Court. A judge can review your case and order your landlord to let you back in if the lockout was illegal.

Who handles lockout or eviction disputes in Mississippi?

Your local county's Justice Court manages landlord-tenant disputes, including illegal lockouts and eviction cases.

Are landlords allowed to lock me out for emergency repairs?

Temporary lockouts for emergency repairs may be allowed, but you must receive prompt notice and regain access as soon as possible.

Mississippi Renters: Your Rights If You’re Locked Out

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Mississippi published June 21, 2025

Getting locked out of your rental home can be stressful and confusing. In Mississippi, special laws protect renters if they are locked out by a landlord. It’s important to understand your rights and know which steps to take if you find yourself in this situation. This article explains Mississippi lockout laws, how to regain access, and what official options renters have for help.

Understanding Lockouts and Tenant Rights in Mississippi

A lockout happens when a landlord changes the locks, removes your door, or otherwise prevents you from entering or living in your home without a proper court order. In Mississippi, landlords generally cannot lock out tenants as a way of handling late rent or disputes. For most residential tenancies, landlords must first go through the legal eviction process.

When Is a Lockout Legal?

Mississippi law only allows landlords to remove or lock out tenants after an official eviction court order. Self-help evictions—such as changing locks or shutting off essential utilities to force a tenant out—are not allowed under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Landlords must file for eviction and get a court order to legally remove a tenant.
They cannot change locks, remove doors/windows, or turn off utilities to make you leave.
Emergency lock changes for repairs or danger may be allowed, but communication and quick re-entry are required.

What To Do If You’re Locked Out

If you’re locked out without a court order in Mississippi, you have the right to act quickly to protect your interests. Here are key steps you can take:

Stay calm and document everything: Take photos, note dates/times, and collect any messages with your landlord.
Ask for immediate access: If it was not a court-ordered eviction, formally request in writing to be let back in.
Contact local law enforcement: If you believe the lockout is illegal, you may ask local police for assistance re-entering your home. Bring proof you live there (ID, lease, utility bill).
File a complaint with the local Justice Court: Mississippi uses county Justice Courts for landlord-tenant disputes. You can apply for an emergency hearing and request to regain possession.

Most Mississippi counties require you to complete a Petition for Immediate Possession (form may vary by county). For example, Hinds County offers a Petition for Immediate Possession form.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Form Name: Petition for Immediate Possession
When and How Used: Use this form when you have been locked out without a court order. Submit the completed form to your county’s Justice Court clerk. For example, in Hinds County, use their Petition for Immediate Possession. The court will schedule a hearing, and if the judge agrees, you may get a court order for immediate re-entry.
Link: Official Hinds County form

Other counties have similar forms—check with your local Justice Court contact list to request the proper paperwork.

The Tribunal Handling Lockout Disputes

Landlord-tenant disputes in Mississippi, including lockouts, are handled by the Mississippi Justice Courts. Every county has a Justice Court where you can file complaints or emergency motions for possession.

Tip: Always keep copies of your lease, any correspondence, and forms submitted for your records. Documenting your situation helps protect your rights as a Mississippi renter.

Lockout Laws and Relevant Legislation

Mississippi’s main law for rental housing is the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. The specific section prohibiting illegal lockouts is § 89-8-17: Remedies for unlawful exclusion or interruption of essential services.^[1]

This act states that renters can request an immediate court hearing if unlawfully excluded from their home or if essential services are cut off. Remedies may include actual damages, recovery of possession, and other relief as determined by the court.

Summary: Know Your Rights and Take Action

Most lockouts are not legal in Mississippi unless a landlord follows the court eviction process. Document your situation, reach out for help, and use Justice Court forms to regain access if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lockouts in Mississippi

Can my landlord legally change my locks if I am behind on rent?
No, Mississippi landlords cannot change locks or exclude you from your home without a court eviction order. Doing so is against state law.
What if my landlord says it’s for repairs or an emergency?
Temporary lockouts for emergency repairs may be allowed, but you must be notified and given entry as soon as it’s safe. Long-term exclusion is not permitted without court process.
How do I use a Petition for Immediate Possession?
Download the form from your local Justice Court, fill it out with your situation, and file it in person at the court. Provide proof of tenancy (lease, bills) to support your claim.
Who handles landlord-tenant lockout disputes in Mississippi?
Your local county’s Justice Court will review and decide on emergency possession cases.
What damages can I recover if I was locked out illegally?
You may be awarded the right to move back in, plus compensation for losses or inconvenience as decided by the Justice Court judge.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

Landlords must use the court eviction process and cannot use lockouts for nonpayment or disputes.
Justice Courts handle tenant lockout cases—use a Petition for Immediate Possession to request urgent help.
Keep good records of any exclusion and act promptly to protect your rental rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Mississippi Justice Courts Directory – Find your local court contact information and file emergency possession petitions.
Mississippi Home Corporation Renters Assistance – Renter resources and guidance about state protections.
Hinds County Justice Court – Central Mississippi example with forms and instructions (check your own county for exact rules).
Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Lockout Protections

Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 89-8-17
Mississippi Judiciary: Justice Courts – Landlord/Tenant
Example petition form: Hinds County Petition for Immediate Possession
Mississippi Home Corporation: Renters Information and Resources