Mississippi landlord-tenant laws.
Notable Mississippi quirk
Very light disclosure burden. Wrongful deposit withholding exposes the landlord to damages up to the amount withheld plus attorney fees.
Mississippi landlord law FAQ
What is the maximum late fee for rent in Mississippi?
There is no statutory maximum. A late fee is enforceable only if written into the lease and must be reasonable — penalty-like fees may be unenforceable (Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-1 et seq. is silent on late fees).
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Mississippi?
45 days after the tenancy ends, possession is delivered, and the tenant demands it, with any deductions itemized in a written notice (Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21).
Is there a limit on security deposits in Mississippi?
No. Mississippi sets no cap on the deposit amount (Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21).
Does Mississippi require a grace period for late rent?
No statutory grace period exists; it depends on the lease. After default, the 3-day pay-or-quit notice under § 89-8-13 applies.
Does a Mississippi landlord have to give notice before entering?
No. There is no statutory notice-to-enter requirement in Mississippi; the lease governs entry rights.
How much can a landlord charge for late rent in Mississippi?
No statutory cap — enforceable only if in the written lease and reasonable. Grace period: None statutory — the lease controls. Late fee terms should always be written into the lease.
What is the security deposit limit in Mississippi?
No cap. The deposit must be returned within 45 days after move-out.
How much notice does a landlord need to enter a rental in Mississippi?
None statutorily required.
Is there rent control in Mississippi?
Prohibited.
Sources
Summarized from public statutes, state bar guides, and provincial residential tenancy acts. Last reviewed 2026-07-02. Deposit statute: Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21. Late fee statute: None — statutory silence under Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-1 et seq.; the lease controls.
- Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8-21 (security deposits)
- Mississippi Justice Courts (jurisdiction)
- MS Attorney General — Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (PDF)
This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney for your specific situation.