Mississippi
Security deposits in Mississippi are regulated by Mississippi Code Annotated § 89-8-21. Certain municipalities may have local laws that supplement state regulations. To ensure full compliance, verify the regulations applicable in your area.
Mississippi:
Key Points at a Glance
💰 Deposit Cap: Not Specified
🔒 Holding Requirements: No
💸 Interest Required: No
📫 Return Window: 45 days
Maximum Security Deposit
Mississippi state law does not currently have a limit on the amount that landlords/property managers can require as a security deposit.
Holding & Interest Requirements
Holding Requirements: Mississippi state law does not currently specify where landlords/property managers must hold security deposits.
Interest on Deposits: Mississippi state law does not currently require landlords/property managers to pay tenants interest on security deposits.
Information Provided to Tenant: There is currently no specific requirement for landlords/property managers to provide tenants with information about where the security deposit is held.
Deposit Refunds
Timeline: The landlord/property manager must either (1) return the full security deposit to the tenant or (2) provide the tenant with a written notice itemizing deductions to the security deposit, along with the portion of the deposit being returned, within 45 days of the tenant’s vacancy.
Permissible Deductions: Landlords/property managers may deduct the following from a security deposit:
- Unpaid rent
- Damages beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning costs to restore the unit to its condition at the start of the tenancy
- Other reasonable and necessary expenses incurred as a result of the tenant’s breach of the lease
Documentation of Deductions: The written notice of itemized deductions should detail the reason for each deduction.
Penalties for Violations: Failure to return the deposit or provide the written notice of itemized deductions as required may result in the landlord/property manager being liable for damages up to $200 for each violation and the return of any portion of the security deposit that is wrongfully withheld. The tenant may also seek attorney’s fees and court costs in a lawsuit.
Sale of the Rental Property
Mississippi state law does not provide specific regulations governing how security deposits must be handled when a rental property is sold.
Disclaimer
The Security Deposit Law Center is intended for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. We make no representations or warranties as to its accuracy and completeness. Security deposit and security deposit alternative laws vary by jurisdiction and may change. You should not rely on any information contained herein to act (or refrain from acting) without first consulting with qualified legal counsel.
