Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a licensed attorney in Mississippi for specific legal guidance.Â
A well-drafted lease agreement helps property managers and landlords in Mississippi protect their interests while clearly defining tenant responsibilities.
This guide will walk you through the key components of a Mississippi lease agreement in 2025 and what to consider when customizing the free template available at the top of this post.
What Is a Mississippi Lease Agreement?
A Mississippi lease agreement is a legally binding document between a property owner (landlord) and a tenant. This agreement lays out the terms and conditions for renting a property, establishing rules for rent, occupancy, and tenant behavior. Whether you’re a property manager or landlord, you need a solid lease agreement to avoid confusion or legal trouble. It also sets clear expectations for both parties to follow throughout the rental period.
Who Needs a Mississippi Lease Agreement?
Anyone involved in renting out residential properties in Mississippi should have a Mississippi Lease Agreement. This includes property managers, landlords, and tenants.
- Property managers use these agreements to manage rental properties and enforce rules.
- Landlords rely on these agreements to outline the terms of renting and protect their legal rights.
- Tenants benefit from clear expectations about rent, property use, and other responsibilities.
Mississippi law requires that leases lasting more than one year must be written and signed by both parties. Without a formal lease, property owners risk complications in enforcing rent payments and other terms. A lease also helps manage risks and provides clarity to both parties.
Types of Mississippi Lease Agreements
Mississippi offers several types of lease agreements, each suited to different rental situations. Understanding which one to use will help you meet your needs and those of your tenants.
Fixed-Term Lease Agreement
A residential lease agreement is the most common type used in Mississippi for long-term rentals, typically lasting one year or more. It covers the rent, security deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and other terms specific to the rental.
Month-to-Month Lease Agreement
A month-to-month lease agreement offers flexibility to both landlords and tenants. Neither party is locked into a long-term commitment, and either side can end the lease with proper notice, often 30 days.
Sublease Agreement
A sublease agreement occurs when a tenant rents out the property or a part of it to another individual, known as a subtenant. The original tenant remains responsible for the lease terms, even though the subtenant pays rent directly to them.
Roommate Agreement
Though not a formal lease, a roommate agreement is used when multiple tenants share a rental property. This document clarifies the rights and responsibilities of each tenant, such as splitting rent or sharing common areas.
Commercial Lease Agreement
For those renting out commercial spaces, a commercial lease agreement is used. It includes terms specific to business operations and typically involves longer lease periods.
What Should a Mississippi Lease Agreement Include?
A lease agreement in Mississippi should cover a range of elements to protect both the landlord and tenant. Here are the key sections to include:
Parties Involved
The lease should identify the parties involved—the landlord, tenant(s), and any property management company. Include contact information for each party to make sure that communication is easy and well-documented.
Lease Duration Dates
The lease must specify the start and end dates of the rental period. Whether it’s a short-term or long-term lease, these dates are important. The agreement should also outline the rent amount, due dates, payment methods, and any penalties for late payments.
Rent and Security Deposit Information
Clearly state the rent amount, due date, and payment methods. Specify late fees and explain how the security deposit will be handled, including the amount, due date, and how it will be returned at the end of the lease.
Occupancy Limits
The lease should define who can live in the property, including tenants, children, and guests. Exceeding occupancy limits can lead to eviction, so be specific about these restrictions.
Property Management Company & Tenant Responsibilities
The lease should outline the landlord’s and tenant’s responsibilities. For example, the landlord must maintain habitable living conditions and manage common areas, while tenants must pay rent on time and maintain cleanliness in the rental unit.
Pet Policies
Specify whether pets are allowed, and if so, any restrictions on size or number. Also, note tenant responsibilities for cleaning up after pets and maintaining the property in good condition.
Mississippi Lease Agreement Addenda and Disclosures
In addition to the main lease agreement, landlords must include specific addenda and disclosures to comply with both state and federal regulations.
Let’s delve into some of the most important addenda and disclosures for Mississippi lease agreements. This list is not exhaustive, so consult a legal professional if you’re unsure about what to include in your own agreements:
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
If the rental property was built before 1978, federal law requires a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure. This informs tenants about the potential risks of lead-based paint in older buildings and helps reduce liability.
Optional Disclosures & Addenda
Other optional disclosures may include information on asbestos, bed bugs, or mold. Including these can help landlords avoid disputes by providing tenants with full transparency about the property’s condition.
Consequences for Not Including Mandatory Disclosures
Failing to include mandatory disclosures in the lease can lead to legal penalties or unenforceable terms. Always comply with legal requirements to avoid complications later.
Mississippi Lease Agreement Laws and Regulations
Certain laws affect Mississippi lease agreements, particularly regarding security deposits, late fees, and grace periods. Familiarizing yourself with these regulations will help you avoid mistakes.
 Security Deposits
Mississippi law outlines rules for security deposits, including the maximum amount a landlord can charge and the return period. Security deposits must be returned within 45 days of the tenant moving out.
Right of Entry
Mississippi law allows landlords to enter the property for inspections, repairs, or emergencies. However, landlords must provide reasonable notice before entering, unless it’s an emergency.
Grace Period
Mississippi law doesn’t require a grace period for rent payments, but it’s often recommended to include one in your lease. Providing a grace period can help avoid disputes and offer tenants more flexibility in making payments.
Late Fees
Mississippi doesn’t set a maximum for late fees, but landlords should keep the fees reasonable clearly stated in the lease agreement.
Taking the Next Steps with Your Mississippi Lease Agreement
A well-constructed lease agreement is key to a successful rental experience in Mississippi. Our template makes the first step easy. From there, you can customize the agreement to meet your needs.
For a faster leasing process, consider testing out Buildium’s comprehensive property management software. You can give it a try with a 14-day free trial or by signing up for a guided demo.
