Mississippi Repair Request Guide for Renters

If you're renting in Mississippi and have concerns about maintenance or necessary repairs in your unit, understanding the correct way to request repairs is crucial. Mississippi law outlines your rights as a renter and your landlord’s responsibilities when it comes to maintaining a safe, habitable home. This guide explains how to file a repair request that’s likely to get results, ensuring you and your home are protected.

Your Right to a Habitable Home in Mississippi

Under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords are required to keep rental properties in good repair and comply with basic housing, health, and safety codes. This includes ensuring utilities, plumbing, heating, and structural elements are in working order.^[1]

When Should You File a Repair Request?

File a repair request anytime you notice an issue affecting the safety, health, or habitability of your rental—such as a broken heater, unsafe wiring, or plumbing leaks. Minor cosmetic issues may not be covered, but anything that could risk your wellbeing or the property itself should be reported promptly.

How to Submit a Repair Request that Gets Results

A clear, written repair request is your best tool for getting timely repairs and protecting your rights if issues arise later. Mississippi does not provide a statewide official repair request form, so you must document your request as follows:

1. Write a Detailed Repair Request

• State your name, address, and contact details.
• Clearly describe the needed repairs and when you noticed the problem.
• If possible, include photos or videos as evidence.

2. Deliver Your Request in Writing

• Email or mail the request to your landlord or property manager.
• Keep a copy for your records. If sending by mail, use certified mail with a return receipt.

3. Allow a Reasonable Time for Repairs

In Mississippi, landlords generally must make repairs within 14 days after receiving written notice, unless the issue is an emergency (such as lack of heat in winter). Emergencies should be reported immediately and may be subject to shorter response times.^[2]

What to Do if Repairs Aren’t Made

If your landlord does not fix the problem in the reasonable time frame after your written request, you may have options:

• Contact your local city or county code enforcement office to report hazards (Mississippi State Department of Health - Environmental Health).
• Consider withholding rent, but only after following legal protocol and knowing the associated risks—seek legal advice first.
• You may also terminate your lease if the issue substantially affects health or safety, after written notice. Always check the Mississippi Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 89-8-17 for the procedure.

Relevant Forms and Where to Get Help

• Repair Request Letter (No official form):
  Create your written request following the steps above. Example templates are available from the HUD Mississippi Tenant Rights page for guidance.
• Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act Complaint:
  Present issues to your local Mississippi Justice Court if disputes cannot be resolved. This is the official tribunal for tenant-landlord disputes in Mississippi.

FAQ: Common Questions About Repair Requests in Mississippi

1. How soon must a landlord fix repairs in Mississippi?
   Generally within 14 days of written notice, unless it’s an emergency.
2. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made?
   Only as a last resort, and you should follow specific legal steps described in Mississippi law. Seek legal advice before withholding rent.
3. What if my landlord ignores my repair request?
   You can contact local code enforcement, file a complaint in Justice Court, or in some cases, end your lease after proper notice.
4. Is there an official Mississippi repair request form?
   There is no official form, but written notice (letter, email) is legally required.
5. Where can I get a sample repair request letter?
   You can find example letters on the HUD Mississippi Tenant Rights page.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Always submit repair requests in writing and keep a copy.
• Landlords have 14 days to make most repairs after notice.
• Don’t withhold rent or terminate your lease until you’ve followed all legal steps and received professional advice.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Justice Court – Handles landlord-tenant disputes.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Mississippi Tenant Rights – Information and example forms.
• Mississippi State Department of Health: Environmental Health – Complaint forms for health and safety hazards.
• Mississippi Bar Legal Help – Find legal aid and tenant advice services.

---

1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Landlord’s repair obligations and tenant remedies

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations