Mississippi Move-Out Cleaning Standards: What Renters Need to Know

Preparing to move out of a rental in Mississippi? Understanding the cleaning standards for your move-out inspection can help you avoid security deposit disputes and leave your rental in good standing. This article breaks down Mississippi’s move-out cleaning expectations, tenant rights, and practical action steps — all based on state law and official resources.

Understanding Cleaning Standards When Moving Out

Mississippi law doesn’t set highly detailed cleaning requirements, but state legislation does address a renter’s responsibility to leave the property clean and free of damage beyond normal wear and tear. Landlords can only make deductions from your security deposit for cleaning if the cleanup goes beyond what’s considered normal use.

• Normal wear and tear includes minor marks, faded paint, or worn carpet from everyday living.
• Excessive dirt, pet stains, trash left behind, or unreported damage could lead to a deduction.

You can review Mississippi landlord-tenant guide for more details on permitted deductions and tenant responsibilities.

What Does ‘Broom Clean’ Mean?

Mississippi leases often require tenants to return the unit in “broom clean” condition. This means:

• Sweeping/vacuuming floors and carpets
• Wiping down counters, cabinets, and appliances
• Removing all personal belongings and trash
• Cleaning sinks, tubs, and toilets

Always check your written lease for any specific cleaning requirements set by your landlord.

Security Deposits and Deductions

Under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 89-8-21, landlords must return your deposit within 45 days after move-out unless there are legitimate reasons to keep some of it, such as cleaning that goes beyond normal wear and tear.

• Landlords must provide an itemized list of deductions within the same 45-day period.
• Disputing a deduction? You can request documentation or receipts for cleaning charges.

Move-Out Inspection Tips

• Request a walk-through inspection with your landlord.
• Take time-stamped photos of each room before you leave.
• Use a cleaning checklist so you don’t overlook any area.

Relevant Mississippi Forms for Move-Out and Deposits

• Mississippi Security Deposit Settlement Form: While there’s no universal “move-out” form, landlords must send an itemized list of deductions if they withhold money from your deposit. Tenants may use a written request for deposit return. See the sample demand letter and further resources in the Mississippi Landlord-Tenant Handbook.
• Sample Move-Out Letter: Tenants are advised to send written notice of intent to vacate as required by their lease. Although there’s no state-standard form, the Mississippi Bar Association recommends putting your notice in writing and retaining copies. Examples can be found on the Mississippi Bar Association's Landlord-Tenant Law page.

Always deliver important move-out communications in writing and keep dated records.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, most residential tenancy disputes are resolved in Justice Court in the county where the property is located. If your deposit isn’t returned or there is a disagreement over cleaning charges, you can consider filing a small claims action here.

Action Steps: Protecting Yourself at Move-Out

• Review your lease for cleaning clauses
• Complete all standard cleaning tasks (“broom clean” minimum)
• Document your cleaning with dated photos/videos
• Return all keys and garage remotes
• Deliver your written move-out notice and request deposit return if your landlord hasn’t initiated

Following these steps can reduce the risk of disputes during move-out in Mississippi.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is considered normal wear and tear in Mississippi?
   Normal wear and tear includes minor fading, small nail holes, or worn carpet that happens from regular use, not caused by neglect or abuse.
2. Can my landlord charge for cleaning if I leave the rental clean?
   No, landlords in Mississippi can only deduct from your security deposit for cleaning that exceeds normal wear and tear or cleaning not completed per lease terms.
3. How do I dispute a cleaning charge or deposit deduction?
   Request a written explanation and evidence from your landlord, and if unresolved, consider filing a complaint in your local Justice Court.
4. Does Mississippi provide a required move-out inspection?
   Mississippi does not require landlords to do a formal move-out inspection, but it’s recommended to request one for documentation.
5. How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
   Landlords must return your security deposit and any itemized deductions within 45 days after your move-out date.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Secretary of State: Landlord-Tenant Handbook
• Mississippi Justice Court (for tenancy disputes, including deposit issues)
• Mississippi Bar Association: Landlord-Tenant Rights
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – free legal help for qualifying renters

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 89-8-21
2. Mississippi Secretary of State: Landlord-Tenant Handbook
3. Mississippi Justice Court
4. Mississippi Bar Association: Landlord-Tenant Law

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