Mississippi Rent Control Laws: What Renters Need to Know (2025)

If you're renting in Mississippi and worried about unexpected rent hikes, eviction, or needing repairs, understanding your rights is crucial. Many renters ask about rent control, especially as rents change across the country. Below, you'll find a clear explanation of Mississippi laws and your options as a renter in 2025.

Does Mississippi Have Rent Control or Rent Stabilization?

Mississippi does not have any statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws. This means landlords can generally set and increase rents as they choose, provided they follow lease agreements and give proper notice.

• No statewide rent caps or maximum annual increase limits apply
• Local governments are prohibited by state law from enacting their own rent control ordinances¹

This legal framework is very different from places like New York or California, where strict rent regulation applies. In Mississippi, state statutes prevent cities or counties from passing rent control rules.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Landlords in Mississippi must follow lease terms and state law if they want to raise your rent. If you're on a month-to-month lease, your landlord must give you at least 30 days' written notice before a rent increase takes effect.

• For fixed-term leases (like one year), your rent cannot be changed until the lease expires, unless your agreement says otherwise.
• For month-to-month renters, a 30-day notice in writing is required before increasing rent.

Always get changes like rent increases in writing and keep copies for your records.

Are There Any Protections Against Rapid Rent Increases?

Mississippi law does not limit the size or frequency of rent increases. However, increases cannot be used to discriminate (such as based on your race, religion, or other protected class), and landlords must follow notice laws.

Official Forms and Legal Process

• Notice of Rent Increase: Mississippi law does not require a specific form number. Landlords simply must give written notice with the intended new rent and the date it will begin. For example, if your lease is month-to-month and your landlord wants to raise the rent as of July 1, you must receive written notice by June 1.
• Notice to Vacate: If you cannot agree to the new rent, landlords must also provide a written notice (usually 30 days) if they want you to move out. There is no official state form, but sample notices are available in the Mississippi Access to Justice Center housing resources.

Who Oversees Landlord-Tenant Issues in Mississippi?

Mississippi does not have a state landlord-tenant tribunal or board. Instead, most disputes are handled through local Justice Courts, which manage eviction filings and related residential tenancy matters. If you need to contest an eviction or file against your landlord, you will go through your local Justice Court.

Relevant Mississippi Tenancy Legislation

The main law protecting renters in Mississippi is the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 89, Chapter 8, Mississippi Code Annotated). This law covers notice periods, lease requirements, landlord and tenant duties, and basic protections.

What Can You Do If You Face an Unfair Rent Increase?

If your landlord raises your rent and you believe it is unfair, retaliatory, or discriminatory, you have several options:

• Communicate in writing with your landlord and ask for clarification or negotiation.
• Contact the Mississippi HUD Field Office or the Mississippi Center for Legal Services for free legal help.
• If the increase is linked to discrimination, file a complaint with the HUD Office of Fair Housing.
• For lease issues or illegal notice, you may challenge the increase in your county's Justice Court.

Always keep records of notices, lease agreements, and conversations. If you have unique circumstances such as living in subsidized or public housing, different rules might apply—contact your local housing authority for details.

FAQ: Mississippi Rent Control and Renter Rights

1. Is there any rent control in Mississippi?
   No, Mississippi does not have any rent control or rent stabilization laws at the state or local levels.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give before raising rent?
   Landlords must provide at least 30 days' written notice for rent increases on month-to-month leases.
3. Can my landlord raise my rent for any reason?
   Yes, as long as the reason is not discriminatory or retaliatory, and proper notice is given. There is no limit to the amount of the increase under state law.
4. Which agency helps renters having disputes in Mississippi?
   Residential tenancy disputes are typically managed by your local Justice Court. Free legal advice may be available from the Mississippi Center for Legal Services.
5. Where can I find tenant rights laws in Mississippi?
   You can read the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act online.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Mississippi does not have rent control laws; rent can be increased with proper notice and subject to anti-discrimination laws.
• Know your lease terms and keep all communications in writing.
• For formal disputes, reach out to local Justice Courts and free legal services for renters.

Staying informed about your rights helps you navigate rent changes and maintain stable housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Mississippi

• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Official State Legislation)
• Mississippi Justice Courts – For eviction filings and landlord-tenant disputes
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – Free legal help for renters
• Mississippi HUD Field Office – Federal housing support and complaints
• Mississippi Access to Justice Center: Housing Resources – Guidance, sample forms, and self-help tools

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1. Mississippi Code Title 89, Chapter 8 Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Mississippi Justice Courts
3. Mississippi Center for Legal Services
4. HUD Fair Housing Complaint

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