What Happens When Moving From Rent-Controlled to Market Rent in Mississippi

Many renters worry about sudden rent increases when moving from rent-controlled housing to market-rate rent. In Mississippi, understanding your rights is especially important—since rent control laws are different from other states. This article will clarify what happens if you're transitioning out of a rent-controlled situation, explain the relevant laws, and provide actionable steps if you’re facing a rent increase or other issues.

Does Mississippi Have Rent Control?

Mississippi does not have statewide or local rent control or rent stabilization ordinances. This means landlords are generally free to set rental prices based on market conditions, and there are no legal caps or restrictions on how much they can raise the rent.

If Your Unit Moves to Market Rent: What to Expect

While rent control can limit rent increases in some states, Mississippi law does not provide this protection. If your apartment transitions from a rent-controlled or subsidized status (for example, a federal Section 8 program ends), you may now be subject to market rent. Here’s what this could mean for you:

• Landlords can raise the rent to current market levels at the end of your lease term.
• You must receive proper advance notice of any rent increase—at least 30 days’ written notice before the new rent starts, according to Mississippi Code § 89-8-13 ^[1].
• If you hold a month-to-month lease, the landlord must still provide at least 30 days' written notice before raising rent.

Notice of Rent Increase: Required Form and Example

There is no special state-issued form for rent increase notices in Mississippi. However, the increase must be delivered in writing. An example might be a letter from your landlord stating the new rent amount and the effective date, served at least 30 days in advance. Save copies for your records.

Evictions and Lease Renewal when Moving to Market Rent

When your rental shifts to a market rent, your landlord may:

• Offer you a new lease term at a higher rate
• End your tenancy at the end of a fixed-term lease (with at least 30 days’ notice for month-to-month tenants)

If you don’t agree to the new rent or lease terms and remain after your lease ends, you could be served with a formal eviction notice. Mississippi law requires landlords to give proper notice for termination of tenancy (at least 30 days for non-renewal) ^[2].

How to Respond to a Rent Increase or Non-Renewal

• Review the written notice for accuracy and compliance with state law.
• If you have questions or suspect the notice is not valid, contact the landlord in writing.
• You can negotiate the new rent, but the law does not require the landlord to accept a lower offer.
• If you choose not to renew, plan your move to avoid eviction proceedings.

Relevant Forms: Serving or Receiving a Notice

• No official rent increase form exists in Mississippi. Written notices may be in the form of a typed letter or email (if electronic service is agreed upon).
• For lease terminations, landlords may use a "30-Day Notice to Quit". There is no state-issued template, but landlords should clearly state the reason, date, and signature. A practical example for renters: If you receive a "30-Day Notice to Quit" on May 1, your tenancy is expected to end by May 31. Mississippi Landlord-Tenant Rights Guide.

Your Rights and Mississippi Law

The main law for renters and landlords is the Mississippi Residential Landlord-Tenant Act. It covers rules about rent increases, lease terms, notice periods, and eviction procedures. Mississippi does not have a dedicated housing tribunal, but housing disputes are handled in your local Justice Court.

• Legislation: Mississippi Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Title 89, Chapter 8)
• Tribunal: Mississippi Justice Court

FAQ: Rent-Controlled to Market Rent in Mississippi

1. Can my landlord raise the rent as much as they want after my unit is no longer rent-controlled?
   Yes. Mississippi does not limit rent increases. However, your landlord must give you at least 30 days’ written notice before any new rent takes effect.
2. Is there a government board or agency that oversees rent increases or tenant disputes in Mississippi?
   Housing disputes are handled in your local Justice Court. There is no separate housing or rent board in Mississippi.
3. What official forms do I need if I disagree with a rent increase?
   Mississippi does not provide official dispute forms for rent increases. You can respond with a written letter or seek support from a legal aid service or the Justice Court if facing eviction.
4. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   You must receive at least 30 days’ written notice before the increase takes effect, per state law.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Mississippi does not provide rent control or stabilization; market rent applies by default.
• Your landlord must provide a minimum of 30 days’ notice before any rent increase or lease non-renewal.
• Eviction and lease disputes are handled by the local Justice Court, not a housing board.

If you’re unsure about your rights or facing a sudden rent hike, seek advice early and keep all written records.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Secretary of State – Landlord-Tenant Rights Guide
• Mississippi Justice Court Locator – Find your local court for filing landlord-tenant disputes
• Mississippi Bar Lawyer Referral Program
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services

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1. Mississippi Code § 89-8-13 – Notice requirements for rent increase
2. Mississippi Code § 89-8-19 – Lease termination rules

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