Is my landlord required by law to provide internet in Mississippi?

No, landlords are only required to provide internet if your lease specifically states so.

What official form should I use to file a dispute over internet service with my landlord?

You should use the Mississippi Consumer Complaint Form from the Attorney General’s office.

Who handles rental disputes in Mississippi?

Most residential rental disputes are handled by the local County Justice Courts.

Can my landlord change internet charges mid-lease?

No, landlords cannot change included service charges during the lease without your written consent.

Who Pays for Internet in Mississippi Apartments? Renters' Rights Explained

Utilities, Services & Billing Mississippi published June 21, 2025

Reliable internet is more important than ever for work, school, and daily life. If you're a renter in Mississippi, you might wonder whether your landlord must provide internet, what your rights are concerning service and billing, and how state rental laws support you. This guide explains internet service responsibilities in Mississippi apartments using clear, up-to-date legal information.

Who Is Responsible for Internet Service in Mississippi Rentals?

In Mississippi, internet service is generally treated as a non-essential utility, much like cable or satellite TV. This means:

Landlords are not legally required under Mississippi law to provide internet service to tenants unless it is specifically promised in the rental agreement.
If your lease states that internet is included, the landlord must provide a working connection or service as described.
If internet is not mentioned in your lease, the tenant (you) is usually responsible for setting up and paying for service directly with the provider.

Make sure to read your lease agreement closely for any mention of internet or 'utilities included.' If you are unclear, politely ask your landlord before signing.

What Mississippi Law Says About Utilities and Services

Unlike water or electricity, the law does not consider internet an essential utility in Mississippi apartments. Landlord-tenant responsibilities are mainly guided by the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1]. This act sets minimum standards for livability and essential services but specifically covers heat, water, and electricity—not internet or telecommunications.

If your internet is bundled with other utilities in your lease, your landlord can't remove the service or alter it during your tenancy without following procedures in your lease and state law.

Special Cases: Apartments with Included Internet

Some Mississippi apartments—especially student or furnished units—may include internet as part of the rent. If that's the case:

Landlords must maintain the included service as described in your lease.
If internet becomes unavailable due to the landlord's failure (not due to the provider), you could request a rent reduction or file a complaint, depending on the lease and circumstances.
Always document any disruptions and your communication with your landlord.

Common Internet Service Issues for Tenants

Service outages. If you pay the provider directly, contact them first for troubleshooting. If the landlord manages the account, notify them in writing of the outage.
Billing disputes. If your internet bills are included in rent but the landlord increases charges without lease changes, this could be a breach of contract. Refer to your written lease and Mississippi tenancy law.
Access problems. Some buildings restrict internet providers or charge fees for access. Your rights depend on what your lease says and if it complies with the law.

Tip: Request all communication about utility or internet issues in writing—by email or letter. Documentation helps protect your rights should a dispute arise.

What To Do if Internet Service Is Promised but Not Delivered

If your lease states internet is included but the landlord fails to provide it, take the following steps:

Notify the landlord in writing of the issue and ask for prompt resolution.
Keep records of the outage and your requests.
If no action is taken, you may be able to claim a rent decrease or file a complaint with local authorities.

Mississippi Tenant Complaint Process: Official Form and How to Use It

If you need to complain about a landlord who does not honor a lease agreement regarding internet, you can contact your local Housing Authority or file a complaint with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Form Name: Mississippi Consumer Complaint Form
When to use: Use this form if you are a renter and your landlord is not following the lease or is charging unfair fees regarding utilities or services. For example, you signed a lease that included internet but your landlord refuses to supply it.
How to use: Complete the form online or by mail, providing copies of your lease and documentation. Access the Consumer Complaint Form here.

Who Oversees Rental Disputes in Mississippi?

Mississippi does not have a single state-level board solely for tenant-landlord disputes. Most issues are handled in local County Justice Courts. You can find your county court using the Mississippi Justice Court directory.^[2]

Relevant Legislation

Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 89, Chapter 8)

This covers general tenant and landlord obligations in residential leases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my landlord required by law to provide internet in Mississippi? No. Mississippi law does not mandate internet service for residential tenants unless it is specifically included in the lease agreement.
What can I do if the internet included in my rent stops working? Notify your landlord in writing and request a fix. If not resolved, consider filing a complaint, especially if your lease promises service.
Can my landlord increase my internet charge during the lease? Only if your lease allows changes to included services. Otherwise, charges should stay the same for the lease term unless you agree to a change.
What official form covers utility and service disputes in rental housing? Use the Mississippi Consumer Complaint Form from the Attorney General’s office to report a breach related to utilities or services.
Who resolves rental disputes in Mississippi? Most rental disputes are decided by your local County Justice Court. You'll file there if you need formal resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – File official complaints about landlord actions.
Mississippi County Justice Courts Directory – Find your local court for rental disputes.
Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Read your rights and responsibilities under state law.
Mississippi Real Estate Commission Helpful Links – Additional info for tenants.

See the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 89, Chapter 8)
Find your justice court in the Mississippi County Justice Courts Directory