Mississippi Residential Lease Disclosure Requirements Explained

Understanding the required disclosures in a Mississippi residential lease helps renters safeguard their rights and avoid misunderstandings. Whether you're signing a new rental agreement or renewing an existing one, knowing which key details your landlord must provide can prevent future issues.

What Is a Lease Disclosure?

A lease disclosure is information that your landlord must give you—by law—either before or at the time you sign your rental agreement. Some disclosures are mandatory nationwide, while others are specific to Mississippi. These disclosures protect renters by making sure you’re aware of important health, safety, and legal details related to your home.

Mandatory Lease Disclosures in Mississippi

State and federal laws set out the disclosures landlords must provide. Here are the key requirements for residential leases in Mississippi:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for properties built before 1978)
• Owner/Agent Identification
• Security Deposit and Return Terms

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

Federal law requires landlords to provide information about lead paint hazards if the rental property was built before 1978. You must be given:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD Form)
• An EPA-approved pamphlet titled Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home

How it’s used: Before you sign a lease for an older apartment, your landlord must give you, and sign, this form. If you don’t receive it, ask your landlord directly.

Owner or Agent Identification

The lease must state the name and address of the owner, the manager, or anyone allowed to act on the owner’s behalf and accept legal notices.^[1] This disclosure ensures you know who to contact for repairs, payments, or emergencies.

Security Deposit Details

While Mississippi doesn’t limit the amount landlords can charge as a security deposit, they must disclose the terms under which the deposit is held and when you’ll get it back. Typically, your landlord must return your deposit within 45 days after your lease ends, with an itemized list of deductions if any apply.^[2]

Common Lease Disclosures Found in Residential Leases

While the three above are required by law, some landlords may also include (or renters should request):

• Mold disclosures (not specifically required in Mississippi, but good practice)
• Utility payment breakdown (clarifying which utilities you pay and which are included)
• Maintenance obligations (explaining who handles which repairs)

Having these details in writing can help prevent misunderstandings during your tenancy.

Which Official Bodies Oversee Lease Agreements in Mississippi?

Mississippi does not have a dedicated government tribunal focused solely on residential tenancies. However, most landlord-tenant disputes are handled by the local county Justice Court. For guidance and small claims, renters may also refer to:

• Mississippi Justice Court – Handles disputes and enforces residential lease rights
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – Provides renter support and legal assistance

Mississippi rental laws are outlined under the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Official Forms and How Renters Use Them

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (EPA/HUD Form)
  • When Required: For leases of units built before 1978
  • How Used: Both landlord and tenant sign before the lease; you keep a copy for your records
  • Official Source: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form

What to Do if Your Lease Is Missing a Required Disclosure

If a landlord fails to provide mandatory disclosures:

• Ask for the missing documents in writing (email or letter is best)
• Contact the local Justice Court or seek free legal aid through Mississippi Center for Legal Services if the issue remains unresolved

In some cases (such as missing the lead paint disclosure), landlords may face legal consequences, including fines or the right for you to break your lease legally.^[3]

FAQ: Disclosures in Mississippi Residential Leases

1. What disclosures must I receive before signing a lease in Mississippi?
   At a minimum, you must receive the landlord/agent information, terms on the security deposit, and, for older buildings, a lead paint disclosure with the official form and pamphlet.
2. Is a mold disclosure required by law in Mississippi?
   No, Mississippi law does not require landlords to provide a mold disclosure, but it is advisable to ask about existing mold issues before signing your lease.
3. How do I know if my rental needs a lead-based paint disclosure?
   If the rental unit was built before 1978, the law requires your landlord to give you and sign the EPA/HUD Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and give you a printed pamphlet.
4. What happens if my landlord does not give me a required disclosure?
   If you don’t receive a required disclosure after requesting it, you may contact your Justice Court or reach out to legal aid for next steps; missing some disclosures (such as lead paint) can carry legal penalties for the landlord.
5. Where do I go for disputes about my lease or disclosures?
   First, try resolving the issue with your landlord. If that fails, you can file a claim with your county’s Justice Court. Legal services are also available for additional support.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Mississippi law requires key disclosures about lead-based paint (for older properties), landlord/agent details, and security deposit terms
• Always ask for missing documents before signing a lease—written requests are best
• Disputes can be addressed through your local Justice Court or free legal aid centers

Knowing your disclosure rights helps protect you and ensures a smoother rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Justice Court System – Handles landlord/tenant disputes
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services – Free legal aid for qualified renters
• Mississippi Landlord and Tenant Act – Official state tenancy legislation
• Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home – Official EPA guide for renters

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1. Mississippi Code Title 89, Chapter 8 (Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act)
2. Security Deposit Laws for Residential Leases
3. EPA Lead-Based Paint Real Estate Disclosure

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